THE CLOUGH CREW

Mommys Girl

2012-02-18T06:57:00.003-08:00

I love love love these moments. Charlotte is so sweet and loves to cuddle. At this moment I could have been doing other things like dishes or laundry or the other million things around the house that I had fallen behind on but this moment I will never get back. I try and remind myself that those things can wait bc this little girl is growing and changing so much, I would hate to look back and feel like I didnt take it all in!!! I hope today that you will take time to enjoy the important things in your life.

Team Force

2012-02-17T06:50:00.004-08:00

I am so proud of these girls for winning first place at their competition last weekend. This is our first year to have a competition team at LCCT and they have come so far!! They won not only 1st but also High point champion. They deserve it!! We go to New Orleans in 2 weeks for our last competition of the year and I hope we bring home another big win!! Way to go girls you make me proud!!!

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-17T06:44:00.002-08:00

Hope everyone had a great Valentines day. It was pretty laid back at our house. Matt had been sick the entire week before so we were just glad he was mostly back to normal. We did however enjoy a yummy dinner at home. Matt is a great cook and as always he did a great job. Thankful for such a sweet husband on this Valentines day.

Aunt Abbey

2012-01-23T18:20:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago Aunt Abbey came to Lake Charles to visit us. We had a great time and can't wait for her to come back. Sure wished we lived closer.

A Special Dress

2012-01-19T18:01:00.001-08:00

As many of you know Matthew has an older sister who was killed in a car accident when she was 16 years old, her name was Janel (which is where we got Charlotte's middle name.) When Matt's parents were in town his mother brought some sweet dresses that had belonged to Janel for Charlotte to wear. I cant say enough how special that is to me that my mother in law would want Charlotte to wear these. The above picture is Charlotte in one of the dresses, and it is beautiful.
If I have more girls I want them to wear them also and maybe one day even their little girls. So thank you "Gramma" for the dresses they mean a lot to us!!

2012-01-19T15:18:00.000-08:00

PICTURE OF THE WEEK!!!

This past weekend...

2012-01-17T21:35:00.001-08:00

This past weekend Matthew and Charlotte came along with me to New Orleans for LCCTs first cheer competition. The girls did great and had lots of fun. It was pretty cold Friday night and Charlotte is not a fan of being all bundled up like a snow bunny. Ha she still looked super cute!!

Family Pictures

2012-01-09T19:35:00.000-08:00

This is only one of our Family pictures we had done a few weeks ago. Its one of my favorites! I know I have a lot of catching up to do but my time for blogging is very limited. I must say as I look through these pictures and think on how much God has done in our lives over the past year I am thankful, but my heart is also heavy. I think about some sweet ladies I know who are walking hard roads when it comes to sweet children. I think of a friend from high school who is struggling to get pregnant, I know all to well that pain. I think of another sweet lady and her husband waiting to bring home their son from another country and the pain it brings them watching him grow up through pictures, their hearts long to have him here with them. And another sweet friend in a foster care situation who has a precious little baby in her care but who is at the mercy of the state to make a decision about a little baby she loves so much. So tonight I am thankful for my daughter and my family, but to all those out there struggling I pray for you often throughout the day. Asking God to move in your lives in a mighty way. I pray you take comfort in his promises remembering that he knows the desires of your heart and HIS timing is always perfect. Rest in HIS arms.

Happy One Month Birthday Charlotte

2011-12-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

I cant believe my Charlotte is 1 month old today. These past 4 weeks have flown by. She is such a good baby and makes life so much more fun. She is growing and changing everyday, I think she is looking more like Matt. She sleeps well and loves car rides. She likes to be held (all the time) and has really turned into a great eater. Last night was the first night she sleep in her room...I think it was harder for me then for her, she didnt seem to mind at all. Wishing I could freeze time so she would stay this way forever :)

Catching up...

2011-11-30T18:08:00.001-08:00

Over the past 3 weeks our lives have been ever changing...we are still trying to get in a good routine with Charlotte and we are making progress. We stayed in town for Thanksgiving which was a first for us, we missed our family so much but enjoyed a quite day at home just the three of us. I am loving all the new things that make up our day espically bath time, Charlotte LOVES the bath tub. I also love watching Matt with her. She already has him wrapped around her finger. Friday we are having our family pictures done which should be fun, I hope Charlotte is in a good mood! Not sure what shes gonna wear yet since her 0-3 month stuff doesnt fit yet!! Ha she may be going in her jammies : )

Happy One week Charlotte

2011-11-21T12:24:00.001-08:00

So I am about a week behind on this post but last Wednesday, Gramma (Matthews Mom) bought cupcakes and icecream for us to celebrate Charlottes one week birthday. It was cute. I love this little munchkin more everyday.

Charlotte Janel Clough

2011-11-18T14:56:00.000-08:00

This is our little angel... Charlotte Janel Clough ...Born November 9 2011. 6lbs 13oz and sweet as can be!! Matthew and I are enjoying every min of life with her.

10 Day Countdown...

2011-10-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

So I cant believe we only have ten days left until we meet our little girl!! I feel like I have a million thoughts going through my head at one time. I don't think I have ever been so excited and so nervous all at the same time!! I have had many prayers over the past almost 9 months, yes I want her to be healthy and happy and that has been at the top of my list for sure but I also have started praying that there will come time in our daughters life when she will come to know Jesus as her Lord and Saviour. That she will seek out HIS will for her life and follow him obediently. I pray for Matt and I that God will give us wisdom in parenting that we will know when to be stern and when to have grace, that we will be able to model for our daughter what it looks like to be a follower of Christ. I know God has great plans for our growing family and I pray that we keep our focus on him so that we don't miss out on HIS will for all of our lives. Matthew and I are so excited to start this new adventure as parents and are so blessed that God has brought us here...

Baby Update

2011-10-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

We went to the Doctor yesterday and had a great visit. We learned that our baby girl had gained over a pound since last week. Putting her at a big 5 pounds 10 ounces. Now these are only estimates but that's a ballpark figure. They also told us that she has a head full of hair, she gets that from her daddy :) I didn't have hair until I was almost 2!! She may get some use out of those bows quicker then I thought. My Doctor also set a date to induce NOVEMBER 9TH!!! Only 4 weeks from today...I cant believe its almost here. We pretty much have everything done and ready so now we can kick back and relax and wait for C to make her big debut!!!

Baby C's Room All Finished!!!

2011-10-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

So this past weekend Matthew and I put the finishing touches on baby C's room. I am so pleased with how it turned out. Matt worked so hard and did a great job.Now all I need is sweet baby C to get here...Yay!! Only a few more weeks...

Some Daddy Time

2011-10-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my Dad came in town for our baby shower. I think no matter how old we get we all still crave that time and attention from our parents, at least I know I do. Stil at age 26 there is nothing like a weekend with Dad, getting to spend time with him and have him all to myself was GREAT!! I am so thankful for the time and effort he took out of his busy crazy life to come and see us...its not exactly a short drive. WE had a great weekend and I cherish that time we got to spend together. I can't wait to see him again and introduce him to his Grandaughter!!!

32 Weeks...

2011-09-26T12:56:00.001-07:00

Well I cant believe we are less then 10 weeks away from meeting our baby girl...I am soooo ready. Matthew has been working so hard on her room and its looking great. Things are starting to come together and I am realizing how close we are. As her arrival gets closer I am more and more aware of how blessed we are to be walking this road. Many of my sweet friends have experienced the loss of a baby over the last year and I am reminded of how fragile life is. Also as I look back on the journey Matt and I have been on over the last 3 years I am so thankful for all God has brought us through. Thankful that he brought us through the loss of our first daughter Madelyn and through the almost 3 years of heartache trying to get pregnant again. While I still dont understand it all I see how much the Lord taught us during that time and how instead of ripping us apart it made both our relationship with the Lord and each other stronger then I could ever imagine. We know that we are only here by the grace of God. I am thankful we were never alone and that in the midst of all the pain HE was holding our hands. HE never left us for one min. So as we are in such a sweet season of blessing we have not forgotton all that God has and is doing in our lives....God you are FAITHFUL!!!!!

Beach Trip August 2011

2011-09-09T06:07:00.000-07:00

Matthew and I got to spend an amazing week at the beach with his family. The weather and the company were perfect.While we were there we celebrated both his moms and his brothers birthdays, very neat because its not very often we are all 5 together for birthdays. I think its safe to say we all had a great time!! I wasent sure how I would feel being 28 weeks pregnant at the beach but it was so relaxing and nice. It wasent to hot and the water was great. We came home relaxed and refreshed and ready to go back :)

Woo Pig Sooie!!

2011-08-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

Its almost here, Football season that is! The Clough household is ready to cheer on our RAZORBACKS!!

Refuge Kickoff!!

2011-08-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

So last night at Trinity Baptist we had our big kickoff for Refuge (Refuge is our student ministry). Matthew has been talking about this kickoff for weeks. He was so excited. We had been praying for a while that God would do something big. Matt set a goal of 270 students, which would have been the most we had ever had at a Refuge Service. Over the past year and a half God has had his hand on this student ministry and we have watched God sized things happen and last night was no exception. We packed 320 Students into the cavern for the first refuge service of the school year...WOW!!! God continues to remind us how big he is and what BIG amazing things he can and is doing. Matthew and I are so blessed to be apart of what God has chosen to do here in Lake Charles and at Trinity. Our prayer is that this is still only the beginning and that lives will continue to be changed!!

Abbeys Visit...

2011-08-16T12:00:00.001-07:00

This past weekend my sister Abbey came into town for a visit. As always it was such a blessing to spend time with her. We watched movies, went fishing ,introduced her to some of our friends here in Lake Charles and all around had a great time. I am so thankful we got some time together before our baby is born and before Abbey starts her last year at Auburn. Now that I have lived far from my family for about 5 years now I keep thinking that it will get easier when they leave to go back home after a visit...WRONG! It is still so hard, yesterday after we dropped Abbey off at the airport I had my usuall cry.I just miss her so much and love so much our time together. But on a postive note I am so glad to have had that time with her and look forward to this next year for her as she gets ready to graduate and move to the next season in her life. Abbey I am so proud of you and love you so much.

Weekend Recap...

2011-08-07T18:03:00.000-07:00

First of all let me say I sure am glad this guy is home!!

Matthew was in Miami the week before last on a mission trip with the high school students. It was a great trip but I was home alone the entire week and I missed him soooo much. When he returned home last Sunday we had a few students from Arkansas in town, it was a crazy, busy, and fun week but on Thursday everyone went home and we crashed!!! This summer has been crazy. Matthew and I spent the weekend laying around the house, watching movies, and catching up on some much needed one on one time. I must say the BEST part of the weekend was Friday night we had just had dinner followed by some yummy brownies and were watching a movie...when baby girl decided that she was gonna have a dance party!! For the first time Matthew got to feel her kick!!! It was a sweet moment, all I could think was how blessed we are and what a Big God we serve. He was so excited!! I am so thankful for this sweet little blessing, we are already in love with her and cant wait to meet her, only 15 more weeks!!!

Pink Surprises...

2011-07-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

So this past Saturday Matthew, myself and baby girl got a PINK package in the mail from our sweet friends the Delphon's. Inside as you can see was some of the sweetest little things for baby girl. I can't wait till she gets here to use all her new stuff. She is spoiled rotten already and I love it!! A BIG thanks to John, Connie, Kyle, Maddie, and Emma for our surprises!!! On a side note that little outfit is so tiny! Its hard to believe she will be that small. Have I mentioned how excited I am for her to be here!! Only 18 more weeks!!!

Baby GIRL update!

2011-07-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

4TH OF JULY

2011-07-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!! We had a fun day of friends ,food and fireworks!! As always it was so great to have a day with Matthew. Summer is such a busy time so a day to catch our breath was much needed!

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice...

2011-06-25T05:31:00.001-07:00

Its A GIRL!!! I cannot explain to you how excited we are!! Our doctors appointment yesterday went great. We got to see her sweet little fingers and toes, as well as her arms and legs and even her sweet little heart beating. It was one of those moments where we were reminded how awesome our God is that he can and chose to create such a beautiful little life. Again I have to say we are so thankful to be in this season of life, we know that it is by Gods hand that we are able to experience this. Matthew and I had a wonderful day yesterday. After our appointment we took a few pics, did a little baby shopping, and ended the night at a wonderful restaurant in town that Matt had made us a reservation at. It was so great to celebrate our sweet little girl and all that the Lord has done for us. I look forward to getting started on her room and preparing for her arrival. We will however be keeping her name a secret...it just makes it a little more fun :)

Student Life Beach Camp 2011

2011-06-22T06:18:00.001-07:00

This Year was an amazing year at Student Life camp. We took 3 buses full of 6th-12th grade to Orange Beach Alabama. We saw 15 students come to know the Lord as their personal savior and 25 students baptized in the ocean. God did amazing things throughtout the entire week. There is story after story of how God worked in each individual person. Matthew and I are so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful ministry. For me personally this week was such a sweet reminder of why we do what we do. Sometimes the living far away from family and crazy busy lifestyle can be a little overwhelming, but to see a teenager make a dceision for Christ is one of the most precious experiences. To see God change them and speak directly to their hearts is beyond amazing. It fills my heart to watch my husband as he loves on this students like they were his own. So to say the least I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve in this ministry and to be a part of all God has chosen to do here. I cant wait to see what is to come!!!

Baby Update

2011-06-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Matt and I went for our 15 week check up. Everything looks great and babys heartbeat is healthy and strong. Our docter said we have an active baby...must take after Matt!!We go back on June 24th to find out the sex of the baby. I cannot say enough how blessed we are to be in this season of life. After almost 3 years of not being able to get pregnant we know that its only because of our all powerful God that I am now pregnant. Matthew and I are so thankful that God has chosen to bless us in this way. My prayer is that we will never forget to give him the glory and that this sweet baby will do great things for our Lord. So for those of you who may be in a waiting period of your life or maybe you feel your in a season of hardship, dont lose HOPE! Our God is a great God. Take comfort that he does hear your prayers and he knows the desires of our hearts. And remember HIS plan is so much better then OUR plan.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Happy Birthday Sweet Heather!!!

2011-05-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to one of the sweetest girls I know!! Heather and I have been friends for a long time now and its just one of those friendships you would never want to live without. There was a time in our lives when we were inseparable...Heather and I have walked some tough roads together, and I am thankful that through those times I had her by my side. We dont get to see each other as much as we would like but still manage to get together about once a year. Matthew and I got to visit her and Abbey in Auburn for a basketball game just this past November. Heather we cherish the time we get to spend with you. It is so cool to look back and see how far the Lord has brought us and the healing that has taken place in our lives. To HIM be all the Glory!! We Love you Heather, Happy Happy Birthday!

BE STILL!

2011-05-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

So I must admit that I have been a bit frustrated these last few weeks. Being almost 15 weeks pregnant I thought by this time I would be feeling much better. However that doesn't seem to be the case, while I have more good days then bad I still am having some pretty rough days. Now I know that morning sickness and being tired and all that is normal pregnancy stuff but come on I have a to do list. So Monday while feeling a bit sorry for myself for not being able to get done what I thought needed to be done that day the Lord spoke directly to me through the bible study that I am doing. The first sentence was "Thank Him for the conditions requiring you to be still," it went on to say not to spoil these quiet hours by wishing them away but to use this quietness to enhance our awareness of HIS presence.Limitations can be liberating when our strongest desire is living close to HIM. This was a great reminder to me that even in these days when I am less active then I want to be and I am forced to slow down that the Lord is still trying to speak to me and grow me. That sometimes that's what it takes to really hear from him is to just Be still!!! For it is in our weakness that His strength and power will show themselves most effective. So take some time this week and BE STILL...

Excited for our new summer intern!!!

2011-05-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

I must say I am super excited about our summer intern this year. Meet Emily!! Emily was a student in our past ministry. She is a wonderful girl who loves the Lord. I have loved watching her grow up into the young lady that she is today and really look forward to all the ways God is going to use her this summer here in Lake Charles. Emily has been a prayer warrior in mine and Matts life over the last few years, and we consider her not only a dear friend but a part of our family. Emily we love you and are so proud of you...cant wait for you to be here!!!

HAPPY GRADUATION JOSH!!!

2011-05-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

In the next few days Matthew and I will be heading up to Arkansas to be apart of his brothers graduation. We are so excited to see family and to celebrate this wonderful accomplishment in Josh's life. Josh we love you so much and are so proud of you. Our prayer is that you continue to seek the Lord in all that you do. You have so many talents and gifts, we are so excited to see all that God has in store!!!

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

1 Corinthians 10:31

2011-04-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever Amen." Philippians 4:19

Picture of the Day!!

2011-04-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

How can you not love that face!!!

Happy Easter 2011

2011-04-26T07:30:00.000-07:00

So this was our first Easter in Lake Charles. And while we REALLY missed being with family we had a great weekend! Friday night we went to the Lords supper service at church then on Saturday we attended the Easter Fest that our church does every year, they hid over 30,000 eggs for the kids in our community. There were also games and bouncy houses and all kinds of fun stuff. We really had a great time. Then of course on Sunday we celebrated our Saviour!! So needless to say we had a wonderful weekend and got to spend some great time together.

Catching up!!

2011-01-12T19:42:00.000-08:00

Okay so I know its been awhile but we have been super busy. Here's an update on what we've been up to. We spent Christmas in Kansas City with Matt's family. We were there for almost 2 weeks and it was wonderful!! We had a great time like always. I am so thankful to be a part of such a great family. For New years we hung out with some great families from church, it was the first New Years I can remember when I didn't have to wear a coat...I could get used to that :) I must admit having Matthew off work for so long and getting to spend so much time with him made it really hard to get back in the grove of things, but we're back to "normal" if there is such a thing. As far as our adoption journey goes well a journey it is. The original agency we applied with didn't work out. The program we wanted was already at max meaning they couldn't except any more families right now. So the last 2 months we have spent researching other agencies and other options. We have narrowed it down to 2 and should be making a decision in the next week. I am always amazed at how God brings things together at just the right time and just like he wants. How he puts people in our paths at just the right time to say just what we needed to hear or to encourage us not to give up, or as one of my sweet friends said this past week " just keep swimming " you know from Dora in Finding Nemo :) I am so thankful for his provision and that HE is in control. I look forward to all that he is going to do in this Adoption process. Our Prayer is that through this process HE will be glorified.

Happy 4yr Anniversary!!!!!

2010-12-08T07:48:00.000-08:00

Today is our ANNIVERSARY! Wow I cant believe its been 4 years. Its so neat looking back and seeing how we have grown and changed. I feel our marriage is better with each year that passes. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband and best friend. I thankful that I get to share this life with Matthew. This has been a big year for us, we have made our first big move together. Leaving Northwest Arkansas and coming to Lake Charles. And I must say its been crazy, but I will say again I feel blessed and honered to walk this journey with Matt. God has shown himself faithful to us time and time again and I look forward to all he has in store. Matthew I love you!!! Your the best!!

Meghan

143 Million Minus ONE!!!!

2010-12-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

There are 143 Million orphans in the world today. So what does that have to do with us? We are adopting one of them!!! Yeap that's right Matthew and I are ADOPTING!!! On Monday we sent in our first (very tiny) packet of paperwork to The Gladney Center for Adoption. I must say we are super excited...and nervous, and anxious, and lots of other emotions.God has put this heavy on our hearts for a while now and we know he has called us to this... "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this; to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world" James 1:27 and " Defend the cause of the weak and the fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed" Psalm 82:3 I could go on but for now you get the picture. Our prayer is that through this journey God will make himself known. That through our obedience HIS love will be shown above all else. We will not pretend to have this all figured out for we are learning as we go. But we are excited about all that is to come. We ask that you begin to pray alongside of us for the precious baby who will be placed in our home to be apart of our family. We will have more details later on and will be keeping you updated on our progress.

Just A thought...

2010-11-15T11:11:00.000-08:00

So our students are going through the book Crazy Love by Frances Chan. They did the next to last chapter this past week. On the video Frances talked about people he knew that were doing different things to serve the Lord. For example a man who GAVE his house away to the church for them to give it to someone who needed it, or a college kid who slept in their car so a homeless person could use his apartment for a while. I must confess my first reaction was "wow that's crazy" but as I thought on that the rest of the day I thought how sad that we think that way, that we are shocked when people do things like that (and that we don't) I mean it Gods house and Gods apartment and Gods money and well you get the picture...All that we have we have BC of the Lord therefore it belongs to him. Maybe if we start thinking along the lines that our possessions and resources aren't really ours we will start to use them differently. If we all acted like the man who gave away his house or the kid who gave up his apartment, if we started to look at others before ourselves what would our world be like?

Happy Birthday!!!!

2010-11-10T05:53:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday today to my sweet friend Janean!!! Janean and I have been friends for about 4 years now. We used to work together at At&t and our husbands worked together at Pinnacle for like 5 years. We got married within a few months of each other and just shared a lot in common. We miss these sweet friends but hope to catch up with them when we travel home for Christmas!! So again a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY and we love you!!!!

Its Almost time...

2010-11-03T13:43:00.000-07:00

Its almost my favorite time of year,time to go home for the Holidays!!! Matthew and I will be spending Thanksgiving in Alabama and Christmas in Kansas City!! That means only two short weeks till I get to see this sweet face again :)

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!! This picture makes me laugh...the pumpkin suit was a little snug.

2010-10-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

So my husband has always loved to fish (which if you know him is actually quite shocking because he normally cant sit still to save his life) and since we have moved to Lake Charles he has met some people who go all the time. He spent most of the summer fishing and had some really neat opportunities...here are a few pics of what he caught.

Date Night!!!!

2010-10-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night Matthew and I went downtown to Luna to have dinner. It was perfect weather and perfect company. Of course you know me I had to have some pictures ; ) It was a great evening. Afterwards we walked down by the Lake front area, which has recently been remodeled. It was great, by that time it was dark so maybe pictures of that next time. I really love this time of year, its getting cooler and the Holidays are quickly approaching, meaning not to much longer and we will get to see our families!!! I cant wait :)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Remembering my Mom this month. My mom lost her battle with breast cancer in 2003. So this month as we raise money and awareness for finding a cure for breast cancer my thoughts go to her and her battle. I look to the future with hope that one day there will be a cure for ALL types of cancer...However I know that my God is the ultimate healer and that I will see my mom again.I am so thankful for the life that she lived, for all that she taught me, and for the unconditional love that she had for her husband,children,family and most importantly her Savior!!

This last week...

2010-09-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

So this past week has been good but very busy. On Wednesday night we had 15 teenagers come to know the Lord!!! The cool thing is that it wasent some big event or "special night" it was a normal Wednesday night and the Holy spirit chose to move. I am so thankful for a husband who has a passion to see teenagers saved, and thankful for teenagers who respond to Gods call on their lives!!! Matthew and I are blessed to be apart of what God is doing here at Trinity. To Him be all the Glory!!! On another note we spent the weekend in Alabama for Maggie Graces 1st birthday. A big thank you to my awesome husband who took the time to make sure we could be there bc he knew how much it ment to me. We had a great time and I loved getting to spend some sweet time with my family...

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Matthew and I went to Houston, just to take some time away! We had a great time...Lots of shopping,swimming, and eating at some really neat places. It was so nice to get away and spend some time together with no distractions.

My God My Refuge

2010-08-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

So the past week or so Matthew and I have been talking about Refuge. As we walk through life we often face events that are hurtful or painful. However the Lord keeps reminding me that HE is my refuge and only in him will our lives be made whole. What a comfort that God, even in the tough stuff does not forget us or turn away from us but that he is for us. He brought me to these verses this week as I prayed for myself, my Husband, and my sweet family...

" You have kept count of my tossings: you have put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book? Then My enemies will turn back in the day when I call. This I know God is for me. In God whose word I praise, In the Lord whose word I praise, in God I trust I will not be afraid."
Pslam 56:8-11

Be merciful to me O God for in you my soul takes REFUGE in the shadow of your wings I will take REFUGE, till the storms of destruction pass by
I cry out to God most high. To God who fulfills His purpose for me.
Psalm 57:1-2

I miss Thursdays in Arkansas!!!

2010-08-12T14:05:00.000-07:00

Okay so today is Thursday and I must say I sure miss Reese today. Last fall Reese and I started hanging out on Thursdays, it was our "play day" together. Our days together were such a blessing to me. Reese loves wal mart and chic fil a so we would roam the toy section at wal mart then usually hit chic fil a for lunch (She could always make a friend in the play place ) sometimes we would hang out at my house...these were some of my favorite days...we would play with toys I had as a kid and she would sit for ever and let me read books to her. Sometimes we would end our day together with Reese going to the gym with me and helping me coach my cheerleaders! Oh sweet memories. Reese I miss you sooooo much!!! I hope to see you very soon!! You will always have a special place in my heart...love you

2010-08-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Okay so I cant believe my sweet Emma is going to be in the 6th grade this year!! Time really does fly. I still remember putting her in a car seat in the back of my VW Bug!! It has been such a joy to watch her grow up onto a beautiful young lady. I know God has a wonderful plan for her life and I am so excited for her. Emma, Matt and I miss you so much!!! We Hope you have great year this year and we know your gonna love being in the youth group (for real now haha) . Dont ever forget how much we love you!!! OXOX Meghan and Matt

Wrapping up Summer!!

2010-08-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Well as summer is coming to an end I must say Im kinda glad! As much as I love summer it has been far to busy. I am ready for a slower schedule and cooler weather. We are still adjusting to life in Lake Charles and are praying that as our students go back to school in a few days that God will put a fresh desire in their hearts to see their friends come to know the Lord!! That they will live out their lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord, and that they will see first hand God move in a mighty way. Matthew and I are excited to see what God is going to do here. We are also excited to see what God is going to do in our own lives as we seek his will for us!!!

Barons Baseball Game!!!

2010-08-01T21:14:00.000-07:00

On our way home from North Carolina we got to stop in Trussville for a night to see my family. I wish we could have stayed longer but I was so glad to see them anyway. We went to a Barons baseball game...it was lots of fun. Maggie Grace is getting so big so fast!!! It was soooo good to see Abbey I miss her so much all the time! I also got to surprise my pawpaw...he didnt know I was in town, to see his face light up when Abbey and I walked in was priceless. Even though I only got to spend about half an hour with him it was such a sweet time!!! Cant wait to go back!!

Jamica Mission Trip

2010-08-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Matthew and I took a group of students to Jamica for a mission trip! We worked hard but had lots of fun to. While we were there we were able to visit schools and a hospital it was a neat experience. The people there were wonderful and impacted our lives!

Last Cheer Competition!!

2010-06-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

I know its been awhile since I have updated so here we go...Here are some pictures from My last Cheer competition before Matthew and I moved to Lake Charles...I miss these sweet girls so much!!!

2009 TURKEY JAM

2009-12-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

December 12th was our First cheer competition for this year. The girls did great, I was so proud of them. Not only did they look AWESOME, but they did wonderful. The Firecrackers placed 3rd, Thunder 2nd, and Lightning 2nd. I cant wait to take them to Tulsa...I think they have a great year ahead. I must say they are so fun to work with and such a blessing to my life!

New Baby Sister

2009-12-22T19:16:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of Maggie Grace. These were taken over Thanksgiving so she was still super little. I cant wait to see her little personality start coming out!! I am sure she will be a gymnast!!

Fall Fun

2009-10-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

So we have been SUPER busy these last few months. Sorry I have not posted in a while, Anyway these are some pictures from the last few weeks. My cheerleaders preformed at The Tour De Cure and they did wonderful. Hewitt had his first bath (normally the vet does it) and besides taking a REALLY long time to dry I thought it went pretty well. Matt and I love this time of year...for us it means soon it will be the Holidays and we will be spending time with our family!! Looking forward to seeing you all

FAMILY

2009-08-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

Over the past two weeks Matt and I have been able to spend some wonderful time with our families. My sister Abbey came for a whole week and then Matts parents came down for a weekend. It was so wonderful to see all of them. Its always hard when they leave but I am so Thankful for the time we got together. In about a week and a half Matt and I will be leaving for some much needed time together. We are going to Mexico and I cant wait to have him all to myself...Again we are blessed to have this time to spend together. When we return I will be very close to having a new baby sister (Maggie Grace) kinda weird I know (haha) but our families are growing and changing and living so far away from them I am learning just how precious our time is together.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

2009-07-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

On the 3rd of July Matt and I went to watch the fireworks Show in Rogers...it was fun...even though it took us an hour to get out of the parking lot afterwards :)

Then on the 4th we enjoyed food and fireworks at the Walkers...

SWEET HOME ALABAMA

2009-07-06T12:06:00.000-07:00

Me and Abbey in Auburn!!

This year after student camp I got to stay in Alabama and see my family I had a great time and miss them already.

OUR NEW HOUSE!!

2009-07-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Kitchen

Guest Room

Living Room

Matthew and I recently moved into a new house and we love it! I have been telling some of you I would post some pictures so here you go...pictures of our new place...I didnt have time to get pictures of the whole house but you get the idea. To see the rest you will just have to come visit!! :)

Sweet Memories

2009-04-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

These past few days for me have been full of memories. On Thursday was the 6 year anniversary of the passing of my Mom and Friday was her birthday. I am so thankful for the relationship my mom and I had. She was a wonderful woman and taught me so many things. I cannot put into words how much I miss her. I am also thankful for the healing that God has allowed to take place in my life. He is a good God and he will see us through even the darkest events of our lives. He is faithful to all his promises and loving to all he has made!!!

My Sweet Buddy

2009-03-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of Reese from leadership rocks weekend...She is a funny kid...and she really gets into the worship :)

Ready for Spring

2009-03-21T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well not much has been going on at our house these last few weeks. This next week is Spring break...woo hoo!! That means a whole week off work for me :) Since we are staying here for spring break this year I am going to take this week to do some spring cleaning around our house! Matt and I are ready for summer to get here...its one of our favorite times of the year. There are always lots of things going on in the ministry with kids being out of school and all. We are super excited for all the great things God has in store for this summer.

Ice Storm

2009-01-27T15:37:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of what has been going on at our house over the last 24 hours...as you can see we are in the middle of an ice storm...and its very COLD!!!

God is Faithful

2009-01-11T12:42:00.000-08:00

It always seems that just when we start to get discouraged God speaks to us through his word...About two weeks ago this passage was read in church and it really spoke to my heart...

"Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls
yet I will rejoice in the Lord
I will be joyful in God my Savior

The Sovereign Lord is my strength
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer
he enables me to go the heights.

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Our God is so faithful...Whatever we may be going through God will enable us to get through it. He is our Sovereign Lord and our Strength.

Christmas Fun!!

2009-01-06T11:30:00.001-08:00

This year Matthew and I spent Christmas in Kansas City. We has a blast. Got to spend lots of time with family and friends. We love and miss all of you!!

Matthew playing with his new toys!

Matthew and Hewitt in Shawnee Mission Park

ice skating....lots of fun

Matts Mom and Dad on New Years

JAMFEST 2008

2008-12-14T19:22:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was our first ever cheer competition for INFINITI. They did Jamfest in Hotsprings. All the girls did wonderful. Our JR All-Stars placed FIRST...way to go girls you did a great job. You can click on the link below to watch their performance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dqj1xpwC-rs

Our 2 year Anniversary!!!

2008-12-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

Matt and I had our 2 year anniversary on Monday. Its hard to believe that we have been married 2 years already. Through this past year God has been so good to us, he has been our comfort and our safe place, our refuge in time of need, he has proven himself strong in our lives. I feel as though Matt and I have grown closer to each other as well as the Lord. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful man in my life. I look forward to all God has planned for us!!!

ALABAMA THANKSGIVING

2008-12-01T05:57:00.001-08:00

This year for Thanksgiving we went to Alabama to see my family. We had such a great time. It was so good to see everyone and to spend time with them. We even took the dog. Hewitt really enjoyed himself , except for the whole 8 hour car ride. But over all I think he liked it. I must say the week went by way to fast and I was not ready to come back. But I am thankful for the time we all had together.

Abbey painted this for Matt...She did a great job!!

Me and Abbs

Me and My Dad

Hewitt loved his aunt Abbey

All My Cousins

"The Family "

Shelly and Abbey playing the Wii

Matt and Abbey love these things...

BLESSING BASKETS

2008-11-24T05:33:00.000-08:00

This past weekend at our church we had our annual blessing baskets event. This is where we pack bags of food for people in our community then invite them to a service at church and then give out the food. God moved in a mighty and powerful way. The service started at 4:00 and at about 3:00 there were already people lined up at the door (in the freezing cold) waiting to get in .It was truly a heart beaking experience to see so many people in need. Not only in need of food but in need of a Savior. We even had a spanish service in the youth building where we had so many people we ran out of chairs (we have 466 chairs over there). I got the opportunity to work in the childcare with the little babies. A simple diaper change is not something theses babies get as often as they should. So to change their diaper, wash them off, and rock them was such a neat thing to be a part of.It blessed my heart beyond words. Matt got the opportunity to help with baptisms...I think he baptized over 20 people. Josh was also baptizing and he had a little over 20 as well. Afterwards to hear all the amazing stories of the people coming to Christ was Awsome. I will admit I walked away with a heavy heart for these people in our community. But wow to see and be reminded how BIG our God is and how he works in mighty ways. For God is our Savior.

EARLY CHRISTMAS DECORATING !!

2008-11-14T19:18:00.000-08:00

We thought about packing hewitt away
for Christmas but he did not like that idea!!

Hewitt is such a big help with decorations..

Matt putting on the star...

Yes...it is November 14 and we have our christmas tree up!! I am personally not a fan of Christmas trees before Thanksgiving...However this year Matt and I will be out of town for Thanksgiving and Christmas, so we wanted plenty of time to enjoy our Christmas tree. So here it is...our beautiful tree. As you can see from our pictures Hewitt got to help with the decorating. Matt as always was in charge of music, so we had a great song list full of Christmas music. We had such a good time.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2008-10-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

This was our 2nd annual pumpkin carving party at the Walkers House!! I clean out all the pumpkin guts and Matt does all the carving. This year we did a skull...scary huh!

Hewitt The Model !!!

2008-10-13T11:51:00.001-07:00

Matt and I were taking pictures of our dog the other day...I think he really likes the camera !!

FRIEND DAY

2008-10-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

So this past Sunday was a huge day in our Youth Ministry. Not only was it friend day at our church but it was also our first ever Ulitmate Frisbee Tournament as well as Our 3rd annual Hootanny Hayride. Yes we did manage to fit all that in one day. Everything turned out wonderful...Ulitmate Firsbee was awsome, We ended up with 19 teams. They kids seemed to really like it so I think next year it will be even bigger. As for the hayride....as always huge success...I dont know what it is about bondfires and hayrides that gets teenagers so excited but its one of our biggest events that we do. Praise God for all he did on Sunday it was a wonderful time of fellowship with our students.

Mae Concert

2008-10-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday Night Matt and I went to the Mae concert in Fayettville. Josh went and so did a few of our students. We had a lot of fun it was nice and cool outside which made it really feel like Fall. I actually only knew one song that they sang but it was still nice to get to go.

Our Special Day

2008-09-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Since Saturday was Madelyns due date Matt and I thought it would be nice to get out of town. We went to Tulsa for the day and had a wonderful time. We went to the Aquarium and it was so much fun they had lots of neat fish as you can see. We also went to the Tulsa Rose Gardens, not all the flowers were in bloom but it was still very pretty and a wonderful day to be walking around outside.And of course we went to see the famous praying hands. There were also a few malls that we hit along with dinner at a place called "Up The Creek." It was so nice to get away and spend some time alone with my wonderful husband.God had this day planned for us...everything just worked out so well (we didnt even get lost .)I enjoy seeing God in the small things like a day trip to Tulsa. We were very blessed to have the opportunity to go!!!

Tough Week

2008-09-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well this is a week I have not been looking forward to for a while now. This was the week Madelyn was due. Her exact due date was September 19. Just a few months ago I thought this would be the time Matt and I would be bringing home our first child...instead we are missing her very much. But God has used this tragic event in our lives to show himself strong. The Lord has been our ROCK our COMFORT and our SAFE PLACE. He allowed us to rest in his arms during this time of pain. And through his word he has givin us HOPE. I beleive that God has great things in store for us,and I know that while we miss Madelyn very much I know she is right were she needs to be...safe in the arms of our Lord. So we will continue to TRUST our LORD for he is in control...and who better to be in control of our lives then the person who loves us more then we can ever know. And we give God the glory for all that he has done and all that he is going to do.

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Labor Day weekend!! Matthews parents came in town to celebrate his moms and his brothers birthday!! We had a great time. We took them to their first Razorback football game, and they really seemed to enjoy it. We also took them out to the waterfall were Matt and I got engaged....ahh sweet memories!! The rest of the weekend was spent playing the wii, grilling out, and enjoying sweet company. I always love these long weekends but they are even more enjoyable when we get to spend them with family. Matt and I wrapped up the weekend by going to play golf on Monday afternoon... I am not much of a golfer but I very much enjoyed the time with my husband.

H2O Sunday!!!

2008-08-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

H2O Sunday !!!! This is just a really fun event that we do for the youth as you can see its all about getting messy!!! I have learned that if I offer to take pictures it gets me out of having to take part in the food fight. Thank you to all our parents who helped out we could not have done it without you!!

6TH GRADE PLAY DAY

2008-08-15T07:24:00.000-07:00

On Thursday we had our annual 6th grade play day for all the new 6th graders coming up into our ministry. As you can see from the pictures they are a WILD bunch!! But they are all so sweet and so much fun. I really enjoy this age they are all so outgoing and have so much energy...Matt and I both look forward to getting to know them more.

Wrapping up Summer

2008-08-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful summer we had. We watched many of our students grow and we cant wait to see what great things they are going to do in their schools this year. It was also so nice to have Josh living with us this summer as the student intern. He did a great job with the band...they have come such a long way God is really going to use them. Matt and I are so thankful for the time we got to spend with him this summer ( and I know hewitt enjoyed it to.) But as summer is wrapping up I have to say I am ready for some cool weather and FOOTBALL GAMES!! I love this time of year . With all God did this summer i cant wait to see what he has in store for the fall. Greater things are yet to come....and its gonna be BIG!! These are just a few of my favorite pictures from this summer

A DAY ON THE BOAT!!

2008-07-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Matt and I went out to the Lake with some friends. It was a much needed day of rest and fun. It was a perfect day to be out...we skied and wakeboarded and just had a great time. I was very proud of Matt for getting back on the wakeboard after his little accident last year. He did great! Meanwhile I am very thankful for that time that God blessed us with to be together. It always seems that just when we need it God gives us that time together. Praise him for that we are both very grateful.

Wild Week/Orange Beach

2008-07-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

This year for youth camp we went to Wild Week with Ken Freeman.....it was amazing. God moved in a fresh and exciting new way. Many of our students came to know the Lord and were baptized in the ocean. Lives were changed and God met us there...and to him we give ALL the Glory. My sister and best freind Heather also drove down for a few days it was so good to see them I miss them already. But it was a WILD week and we cant wait till next year!!

Summer fun with some special people!!

2008-06-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

BABY GIRL!!!

2008-06-06T09:14:00.000-07:00

Today Matt and I went to get our results back from the babies autopsy.....and yes it was a GIRL....We named her Madelyn Paige Clough. She will forever be our baby girl and have a special place in our hearts and while we so badly wanted to hold her and play with her and watch her grow up we know that one day we will be with her. We are so lucky to have been a part of her life while she was on earth and look forward to the day we get to hold her in our arms and tell her how much we love her!!!

Resting In Gods Word

2008-05-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

As Matt and I start this journey after the lose of our precious baby we are finding comfort in Gods word daily. While its not easy and our hearts are breaking we know that God is in control. We also find comfort in the fact that our little baby is with the Lord and what better place to be!!!We are grateful to all those who have been praying for us. Everyone has been wonderful!!!We go back to the docter on May 29 and will at this point find out if it was a boy or a girl. Until then we just call the baby "peanut."Matt and I have been blessed to be apart of this little babies life even if it was for a short time...it will forever be a part of our family and a part of our hearts. I claim Jeremiah 1:5 for little peanut...
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you
Before you were born I set you apart"

And as for Matt and I we are living by Isaiah 43...
"When you pass through the waters
I will be with you
And when you pass through the rivers they
will not sweep over you
When you walk through the fire you will not be burned
the flames will not set you ablaze
For I am the Lord your God
the Holy one of Israel your Savior...
Since you are precious and honored in my sight
and becouse I love you .

Softball Games and Birthdays

2008-04-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

On Eli's Birthday we went to see Emma and Olivia play softball so we took Eli and Reese a spiderman cupcake which as you can see were covered with bright blue and red frosting. I am sure Josh and Stacey loved us for that. Matt and I love when we get to cover them in frosting, fill them with sugar and then send them home(haha). I think its safe to say the enjoyed them!!! Meanwhile Emma and Olivia played a great game...they won 10 to 1. It was a great day to be outside and spend some time wi th them.

2008-04-21T07:56:00.000-07:00

Matt and I did Race for the Cure on Saturday. It was so much fun. We got up super early and meet some friends at chic-fil-a for breakfast. Then off we went to walk our 1 mile. However I think we walked more then a mile before the race even started becouse we had to park REALLY far away, but we still had a great time. It was also a great chance to do some stroller shopping (haha). Lots of people had their little kids with them so we were checking out all the different strollers that they were using and which ones seemed to work the best. We liked the ones that they kids were NOT climbing out of :)

16 WEEK CHECKUP!!

2008-04-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Matt and I had our 16 week checkup. We got to hear the heartbeat again....it was in the 160s which is right where it should be....yeah. I have to say it was just as cool the 2nd time to hear that little heart just beating away!! The docter also informed me that I had gained 11 pounds since I have been pregnant...she acted like that was so wonderful.Well whatever I guess whats so wonderful about none of your pants fitting? I keep telling myself it will all be worth it in the end.They also offered us the option to test the baby for down syndrome. After some discussion and prayer matt and I decided not to take the test. We figure that God has a wonderful plan for this little life no matter what any docter or test says. Our next appointment is May 1st and its the big one.....boy or girl?? It will also be the first time we will see the baby. This may be the longest month ever!!

North Carolina

2008-03-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

For Spring break this year Matthew, myself , his brother and his parents flew out to North Carolina to be with his grandparents. God really blessed us with this opportunity to be with his famliy, we will always cherish that time that we got to spend with them. We also got to do some pretty neat stuff. We climbed to the top of a lighthouse, went to the place where the wright brothers flew their first plane, and we even got to walk on the beach. It was a wonderful trip!!!

The Heartbeat

2008-03-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well On Friday we went to the docter to hear our babys heartbeat.....WOW it was the coolest thing I have ever heard. It made this whole thing so real for both me and matt it truly was unlike anything I have ever experienced....and it was so fast......the docter said it was right around 140 beats per min. God is so good!!! I cant wait until we get to actually see the baby. Our next appointment is April 4 and then the one after that we will get to find out if it is a boy or girl!!!Yeah so many exciting things coming up.

OUR FIRST BLOG

2008-03-05T12:25:00.000-08:00

Well as most of you already know matt and I are expecting our first baby in September. We are so excited to begin this journey and cant wait to see what God has in store. We get to go to the docter on Friday to hear the heartbeat for the first time. Its hard to beleive that something so small already at 12 weeks has a tiny little heartbeat. How awsome!!! I cant wait :)