Watching the Flowers Grow

The Talk - part many of many more….

2011-12-30T08:40:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite quotes of a college guy friend is, "I wish I still knew everything I knew at 17. Because at 17 - I knew everything!"

Our oldest is right there.

His questions - or more accurately - critiques of us, his parents, really show how he is thinking about life and life choices at this stage. His critiques are usually of our parenting of his younger brother and sister. He wants us to be great parents and has no problem telling us where we could be, get this, stricter. But as we delve deep into a discussion, I usually realize there are questions behind his critiques. He's looking for our reasoning behind our choices and actions. He's looking for our statements and actions to match. Last night's conversation made me realize that these conversations will shape the type of parent he becomes one day. A day that I hope is more than a decade away, I might add.

Last night one topic he broached was sex. I laughed to myself when I heard the same exact words I had spoken at his age.

"Parents act like sex is some terrible thing."

And to some degree, we do. We talk about abstinence, pregnancies, diseases. We talk about waiting. Don't do it yet. Only once you're married.

He wanted real life answers to his very real questions. He didn't want to perfect answers that parents "should say." He wanted us to be real with him.

And while I was embarrassed at times, we had a great talk just the two of us. Afterwards, I brought his father and he together and brokered another talk. Our oldest has an easier time talking with me; yet, I hear from both my son and husband how they wish it was easier to talk to each other. I forced the issue last night, because I knew much of the wisdom I shared with our son, actually came from my conversations with Hon.

I'm so glad we had such an open and honest conversation. I will forever laugh and hopefully so laugh with my son over how many times Hon said, "So there are three issues with sex - pregnancy, diseases, and emotions."

Those were apparently his talking points, and he came back to that sentence over and over again. I swear the first time our son has sex he's going to be thinking, "Pregnancies, diseases, emotions." You had to be there. But oh, are we such "parents" at times.

Did we bring up God in our conversation last night? No.

Was I praying for his guidance and wisdom? Absolutely!!!

May God continue to guide our conversations. May he be involved in our every word and action. May he continue to build trust between our children and us. May this be just one of many talks. Amen.

Practicing the Piano

2011-11-04T08:53:00.004-04:00

I feel called to begin writing again; and yet, I am so out of practice that it is painful.

Painful to find a place to start and even more painful to read. But it's an attempt to answer a desire that I can't deny. So here I go…because life really is just putting one foot in front of the other - no matter how gingerly.

I've started taking piano lessons when I was 9 years old. My best friend had taught me how to play Heart and Soul, and I begged for a piano and lessons. My parents found a piano either for $50 or free - no one really remembers - and my mom spent a few weeks lovingly removing kitty cat stickers and 47 coats of paint. I feel loved when I think of the effort she put forth for me.

It was a huge upright grand. And while it had a big sound, it never really stayed in tune very long. Not that it was tuned very often mind you. So three years ago, my dear husband replaced that piano with a beautiful baby grand for our anniversary. I dove back into playing music. I learned a few new songs, but I keep coming back to old favorites. I would practice and practice. Then I stopped practicing. Then I practiced some more.

You know what? I play the same three songs over and over again.

And you know what? I will never play them perfectly.

Never.

It was a huge day when I realized that I am not a "pianist." But I sure do love to play. I play songs that touch my heart over and over, mistake after mistake, and love each moment I'm playing. I think I have finally found grace in my lack of talent or perfection.

A friend tipped me off to the fact that there was a much deeper meaning to my little piano "aha" moment.

Yet, how does it apply to the rest of my life - my journey with God?

I've been through a season of seeing my "false" or sinful self. It hasn't been very uplifting. I keep trying and trying. I think I want God's transformation, yet all I see are my failures. No amount of practice or effort (I'm not even sure I give it much effort) seems to show a godly transformation.

Do you ever think you've almost got something figured out, but know you're not there yet?

The verse I keep coming back to this fall is Luke 22:42-43, "Yet not my will, but your will be done. And an angel appeared from heaven and strengthened him."

All my readings and thoughts conclude in the same place.

Not my will, but your will be done.

I don't have any answers to the great secrets of life except this one at the moment. I don't even want to imagine where it leads, because at times that's scary. I'm watching another mom deal with God's will for her life, and it's awful.

But I also know in the place beyond all understanding and knowledge that this is the key.

Not my will, but your will be done.

Week 6 - Day 1 Devotional

2010-07-29T06:00:00.002-04:00

Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. Matthew 11:30

Keeping company with God provides joy in our lives. His comfort and presence even in times of heartache sustain and bring us peace.

As I re-read the few sentences above that I wrote months ago, I realize that I spent last week learning this very lesson.

I had a week of worry, not horrible worry mind you, but waiting worry. Even though I knew my worrying was not getting me anywhere, I was still stuck there. We all handle worry differently. I flit from activity to activity never really accomplishing much and my temper is shorter. I’ve heard family stories how my great- grandmother would just sit for days overwhelmed by worry. The only way I know to battle worry is to fill my mind with truth – God’s truth. I also admit I’m not very good at it. I usually end up just holding my Bible rather than diving into it.

These are the times that the scripture written on my heart is such a blessing to me. As I sat beside my Bible last week painting my toe nails rather than reading, God’s words came to me in snippets. His truth that He is the shade at my right hand, that he would keep me from all harm- He will watch over my life (Psalm 121) soothed a worried mom. His gentle whisper even ruffled the pages of my Bible to bless with me with another circled verse.

The days when Bible study is last on your list - but needed most - are the days the spiritual disciplines pay off. Just as months of physical training pays off on race day for an athlete, time with the Lord transforms my spiritual body. It readies me for the times of trial. We will all have these times in this world. His words are written on my heart; His truths have freed me from doubts. On the day I didn’t feel up using my spiritual disciplines to visit with the Lord; He was already with me.

22Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]? 26Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
27"Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
32"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:22-34

Silence – Read – Reflect – Respond – Rest – Resolve

When we take time to gain perspective, we see that most of our worries in life are silly. However, there are times when our worries are huge and overwhelming. Not just possibilities, but realities. God tells us in our reading today that no worrying can add an hour to our lives. Indeed worrying saps far too many moments that could be spent with our loved ones. As with so many spiritual issues this one comes back to trust.

Do you trust your Lord?

Who can you trust more?

Yourself?

I truly know no other cure for worries than filling yourself with God’s word. I also know that if you are a worrier by nature, only God can transform you. Fill your life with Him and His word. These are the times that breath prayers can be so important.

You have an assignment today – go to Bibleway.com or your Bible dictionary/concordance and look up verses referring to worry and trust. Find one you like. Write it on an index card and put it in your purse, on your mirror, in your car, over the kitchen sink. Let God’s word replace the scenarios you create in your head.

Summer Devotional Week 1 - Day 3

2010-07-28T20:40:00.001-04:00

My kids love to go out to eat for their birthday. Their favorite place is any Japanese steak house. The birthday meal isn’t complete until all the waiters and waitresses surround them and sing in celebration for their special day. Well, I went out to lunch for my birthday. My friend mentioned it was my special day, and the waiter said he’d be right back with “something.”

Boy, was I excited, because I knew “something” would include whipped cream. You should have seen my face, which I hid behind my hands, when the group showed up singing. I had forgotten about the singing.

Loudly.

And way too slowly.

I wanted the something special without all the hoopla and celebration. In today’s reading we meet a woman who desperately wanted Jesus’ power. She knew it would heal her, but she just didn’t want the hoopla. I often thought what she would have missed out on if Jesus didn’t take the time to make her acknowledge her healing miracle.

Once again during your reading today, seek what God is saying to you in this moment. Which words touch or even irritate you? Ponder the words that stick out to you even if at first you really wonder why.

21When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet 23and pleaded earnestly with him, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live." 24So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. 30At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?"
31"You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?' "
32But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering." Mark 5:21-34

Silence – Read – Reflect – Respond – Rest - Resolve

Benner says in Surrender to Love , "Jesus welcomes us with love that invites intimacy. He invites us to give up our isolation, our striving, to relinquish control of our lives. In its place he offers rest, fulfillment, and discovery of our true and deepest self in Christ."

· Many different people sought out Jesus’ healing powers and approached him in as many different ways. He knows everything about you, but what areas do you still want to fix before you let Him see them?

· What do you secretly want fixed and put away without ever dealing with again? (Freely answer and ponder this one for yourself – even a blabber mouth like me has some things just between God and me. Thinking through this helps you know yourself better.)

Summer Devotional Week 1 - Day 2

2010-07-28T20:38:00.001-04:00

There is so much to be learned from today’s scripture. You might have heard that scripture can be examined through different lenses or points of view. You can examine scripture as the story that is actually happening...when Jesus actually spoke the words if in the gospels, or the story of Abraham when it happened...there is the lenses of how the people who first heard that letter or gospel heard it as shaped by their culture and place in history...whether the temple was up or down is a big one...how much they are being persecuted, there is also what the writer was trying to teach or communicate or encourage or correct. Another lens to use to examine scripture is through our own personal experience, history, beliefs and traditions. In other words interpretting the meaning of scripture for your life today. This is where we are focusing – applying scripture to our lives right now. Just as Jesus’ invitation “Come to Me” asks us to be less full of ourselves so we may be filled by God; lectio divina is a practice where we make ourselves open and available to God. God may use His word to invite us into deeper relationship with Him or to touch us with His healing grace.

Lord, You know the troubles and thoughts on my mind. Help me to clear my mind of everything but You. Grant me in these moments awareness of your loving presence and enlighten me with Your word for me today.

Use the following passage for your lectio divina reading today. As you begin take time to get comfortable and quiet your mind.

1When Jesus had finished saying all this in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2There a centurion's servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. 3The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, "This man deserves to have you do this, 5because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." 6So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: "Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."
9When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, "I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel." 10Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well. Luke 7:1-10

Silence – take a moment to quiet yourself and ask the Lord to speak to you.
Read – listen for the word spoken to you. Pay attention to the word or phrase that strikes you. Allow a moment or two of silence as you repeat this word or phrase to yourself
Reflect – read again. Where am I in this scene? What is addressed specifically to me? Allow several moments to explore your thoughts, perceptions, and impressions
Respond – read again. What is my response to God based on what I’ve read and encountered?
Rest – read again. Rest quietly in God’s embrace like a weaned child.
Resolve – carry this word with you to live in the context of your daily life.

· Take time to journal your thoughts. What in this reading meant the most to you?

· The centurion knew he did not need to be in Jesus’ physical presence to receive His blessing. What in your life need’s Jesus’ healing?

· Do you believe he can heal your health, circumstances, relationships? Why? Why not? Can He completely heal you?

Summer Devotional Week 1 - Day 1

2010-07-28T20:32:00.002-04:00

Come to me.

An invitation. A simple invitation. In the NIV, the invitation is “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened.” I don’t know about you, but I think that pretty much covers everyone I know. We are created with an innate desire for God. This desire wants to meet God in a very real and meaningful way for God has created us for relationship with Him. Jesus provides the invitation, “Come to me.”

My thoughts are "Why? What’s he going to do? Where are we going? What will it require? What’s in it for me?"

I love this invitation because not only is it an invitation to relationship, but it is also an invitation to a gift. Who doesn’t like a good present? This one is the best. Jesus asks us to come to him, so he may bestow on us the gift of the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom of heaven is foretold in the Old Testament as a kingdom established by the Messiah.

In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. Daniel 2:44

Daniel also foretells a Kingdom of God that is yet to come...

13 "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed… 27 Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be handed over to the saints, the people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.' Daniel 7:13-14, 27

In the Gospels we are blessed when we learn the Kingdom of God is already here as Jesus states in Luke.

20Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, 21nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you." Luke 17:20-21

Do you ever ask yourself, “In who? In Me?”

Jesus tells us exactly to whom the Kingdom of God is promised in his Sermon on the Mount.

Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5: 3

This concept of poor in spirit can be little confusing, especially for those that realize we have the Holy Spirit within us. How can we be poor in spirit if we have God’s Holy Spirit? We need to remember that God gives us His Holy Spirit. We can be so full of ourselves we miss our true poverty of spirit. Poverty of spirit is the root of virtue – it is a state of the heart and how you view yourself in light of God. The word poor in Matthew 5:3 in Greek is “ptochos” which literally means having nothing, reduced to begging, like a beggar, totally broke. Jesus is referring to spiritual poverty. To be spiritually poor you grasp that you have nothing and need constant help. This is in stark contrast to the self-contained, self-sufficient super woman spirit for which our society longs, and is the image for which we so often find ourselves aiming.

This rest of this week’s daily readings will look at the Gospels and some of the poor in spirit that accepted Jesus’ invitation to come to him. Today consider the following verses from Psalm 34 for your lectio divina reading remembering that “fear of the Lord” is respect for His holiness and power.

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.
8 Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
9 Fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him lack nothing.
-Psalm 34:4-9

Silence – take a moment to quiet yourself and ask the Lord to speak to you.

Read – listen for the word spoken to you. Pay attention to the word or phrase that strikes you. Allow a moment or two of silence as you repeat this word or phrase to yourself

Reflect – read again. Where am I in this scene? What is addressed specifically to me? Allow several moments to explore your thoughts, perceptions, and impressions

Respond – read again. What is my response to God based on what I’ve read and encountered?

Rest – read again. Rest quietly in God’s embrace like a weaned child.

Resolve – carry this word with you to live in the context of your daily life.

I know today’s work has been long. I pray it’s been worth it. Take a few moments, jot down any ideas, feelings or the impressions you have after trying lectio divina on your own.

Dearest Lord…

Summer Devotional

2010-07-28T20:10:00.008-04:00

This summer I worked on a devotional to share with a lovely group of ladies. Over the last 5 weeks we've read and tried a few spiritual disciplines with our daily readings. The following is the opening page of the devotional.

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. -Matthew 11:28-30 The Message

These verses have called to my spirit and touched a deep place in my heart this past spring. They have called me like the invitation I now extend to you. Come sit with the Lord in the soft green grass. Lay beside the still water and let the Lord’s living water replenish you. See His compassion and love for you - His beloved child. He knows you - completely. He knows the deepest desires of your heart, the parts of you that you are proud of and the parts you try to hide even from yourself. He knows all and delights in you - for He created your nuances. Come sit with him and learn from him. Let him heal the hurts of your soul and teach you to live like him, freely and lightly. Let him teach you the unforced rhythms of his grace.

My prayer is that through this study you find a way to hear God daily through His scriptures and prayer. I pray that we both find a way to slow down, to listen, and to enjoy God’s presence. As Richard Rohr said, “Prayer is not primarily saying words or thinking thoughts. It is rather, a stance. It’s a way of living in the Presence.”

Each day we used the spiritual discipline of Lectio Divina to read through the selected Bible passage.

Lectio divina – divine or sacred reading is an approach to the Scriptures that sets us up to listen for the word of God spoken to us in the present moment. Lectio divina is a practice of divine reading that dates back to the early mothers and fathers of the Christian faith. It is rooted in the belief that through the presence of the Holy Spirit, the Scriptures are indeed alive and active as we engage them for spiritual transformation.

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

As we make ourselves open and available to God through this practice, the Scriptures will penetrate to our very depths, showing us those things about ourselves that we are incapable of knowing on our own due to our well-developed defense structures. God will invite us into our next steps with him or touch us with his healing grace. Invariably he communicates his love for us in ways that we can hear and experience beyond cognitive knowing. -Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton

Lectio Divina

Prepare – take a few minutes to quiet yourself. Get comfortable and open you heart and mind to the Lord. Ask the Lord to speak to you.

Read – (Lectio) Listen for the word spoken to you. As you read the passage slowly, pay attention to the word or phrase that strikes you are catches your attention. Allow a moment or two of silence as you repeat the word or phrase to yourself.

Reflect – (Meditatio) – How is my life touched? Where am I in this scene? Read the passage again and listen for how this story touches your life today. Allow several moments as you explore the thoughts, perceptions, and sensory impressions that come to you.

Respond – (Oratio) – What is the invitation here? What is my response to God based on what I have read and encountered? Read the passage a third time and allow your prayer to flow as you have a personal dialogue with god sharing whatever has come forth from this reading.

Rest – (Contemplatio) – Rest in the Word of God. In this final reading, release and return to a place of rest in God.

Resolve – (Incarnatio) – Resolve to live out the Word of God as you carry this word with you into the context of your daily life and activity

Living in the Presence

What does, or would, it feel like to live in God’s most holy and divine presence? You do each day, you know? But how often do we notice? How often do we take just a moment to soak up God’s loving presence in our lives? I pray that as you go through this study you more thoroughly feel God’s loving presence in your life. Each moment - good, boring, or bad - He is by your side filled with love for you. And I don’t think He wants to sit there quietly either. I believe with all my heart He knows how to make this crazy life you’re living easier and full of His joy. Lean into Him. His grace and love will bring you His peace beyond all understanding.

Daily Surrender

2009-10-22T09:18:00.003-04:00

This month I've been reading My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers and loving it. Each day I find a few lines I underline and copy into my journal. Today's devotion was difficult. There wasn't a favorite line of epiphany - yet, I think I get it.

God witnesses to His Spirit within us. However, He cannot do that until we abandon ourselves to Him in total surrender.

Boy, when God wants to make a point in my life, He knows He has to keep hammering at the same idea. Surrendering to God is something that takes daily effort in my life. I've been considering this action a lot lately. I learned this summer, that just "knowing" I surrender isn't enough. I've found that I need to pray the words and contemplate what "surrendering" to His will might mean each day. It's what works for me. This is such hard work at times. I have so many of my own plans, lists, and desires. (And many of those lists pop into my head as I'm praying.) Yet at this moment I'm reminded,"Many are the plans of man's heart, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will prevail." Proverbs 19:20

I do want God's purpose to prevail in my life. I also want God's spirit bearing witness with my spirit. It is the Lord that produces all the good in my life. It is the Holy Spirit that produces all the good fruit in me and my life. The only way for that to happen is to move my worldly self right on out of the way.

It's like hiding behind a really big rock or maybe our beautiful home, my worldly possessions, my worldly desires all rolled into this one big colossal ball. There is no way for me to see around that big ball, and there's no way for God's light to shine on me if I'm hiding behind all my stuff. I'm attached to it you might say, valuing it more than God. Yet if I step around and away from my worldly ball, I can bask in the light of His love. I guess that's why I need to surrender daily. Each day I need to consider what I think my plans are and ask myself if they line up with what God would desire in my life - loving Him and loving my neighbor as myself. Do my plans involve pumping myself up or serving others with His love? God will reveal the answer if I ask. Then I need to step away from the world and towards God. He's there waiting for everyone who desires Him.

Dearest Lord, let me bask in your light. Let my humble, small life reflect You more and more each day. Let me daily look at my life and acknowledge the things and desires that stand between us. Help me to step away from the world and towards You. Lord, forgive me for the sin I do not see and the sins I do see and ignore. Thank you for not giving up on me when I forget lessons I've already learned. Let me draw closer to You each day. Amen.

His Favorite Patrick Swayze Movie

2009-09-19T09:36:00.002-04:00

As we finished reading the paper this morning and Hon started fantasizing about the delicious omelet he wanted the good fairy (yes, that would be me) to make, I noticed there's an all out Patrick Swayze movie marathon this weekend. I relayed this news to a salivating (over the thoughts of mushrooms and Swiss cheese, not Patrick Swayze) Hon.

"You know there's only one good Patrick Swayze movie?" he replied.

??? "You mean Point Break?"

"No. That one is pretty good though. But there's only one really good one. You know which one I mean." he said with assurance.

"Youngblood? The hockey one?"

"No."

"Red Dawn?"

"No. What's that?"

"You can't mean Ghost?" What man ever picks Ghost or Dirty Dancing?

"No. I mean the really good one. You know what I mean."

At this point I am scanning the list of movies offered wondering how many Patrick Swayze movies he'd seen when...

"You can't mean Road House???? That's like the worst one." Besides the North-South mini-series which I secretly LOOOOVED.

"Yeah! That's the one. It's great. When does it come on?"

So here's to Patrick Swayze. Thanks for years of entertainment and movies you can watch over and over again.

A Witness of God's Kingdom

2009-09-16T07:41:00.003-04:00

This week is shaping up to be stock full to the brim of blessings. Praise the Lord, and Whoohoo!

Last year I started volunteering at a local homeless day shelter. I am blessed more in those few hours washing dishes than I can yet wrap my earthly mind around. However this summer I wasn't able to volunteer due to those little treasures I call children. For some reason it seemed like they were around all the time; that is if I wasn't driving them to an activity. Summer sure can wear a Momma out if she's not at the beach.

Anyway, more about my blessings. Guess what? People were excited to see me at the shelter. That just made my heart sing. I reconnected with familiar faces. I work behind a counter in the kitchen, but I have the opportunity to talk with anyone who walks up for coffee. I witnessed a tender moment shortly after I arrived. A man greeted a buddy with, "Man, where have you been. I was ready to send a search party for you. I've been worried about you. How is life treating you?"

There was humor and teasing in his voice, but his care and love were enough to bring a tear to my eye and joy to my heart. The Lamb Center is a place where God just pours buckets of love on tender souls. Some are parched for care. Such as guest who normally is just a dear. She was clearly having a bad day. She was upset, and it was hard to understand what she needed. You know how it is when you've had a terrible day, and you end up yelling at the person who is trying to help you. God's spirit of peace was interceded. With her voice trembling full of emotion she finally conveyed what she needed. She was still upset and blew off a little more steam, but it was also clear that she knew someone was trying to help her. Many of us prayed for her day to improve.

Later the center received a phone call from a guest that is in the hospital. He complained that the food was just terrible, so he needed the director to bring him a piece of that good gooey chocolate cake the center has. Someone laughed that they weren't sure the director could drop everything to deliver cake, but I realized that this guest feels love and comfort at the Lamb Center. He wanted his community to continue to care for him. Or maybe he had an intense chocolate craving. Love comes in many forms.

Speaking of food - we were almost drowned in it Monday. I've never seen so much food come in at one time. At one point every counter was covered several dishes high as I stood in the middle of the floor holding a fruit salad the size a kiddie pool with no where to put it. May God pour extra blessings on those who follow His prompting to donate to the homeless. I can vouch that very hungry people walk into the center. They worry about getting any food. Monday there were smiles all around as they realized God had provided them with a mighty banquet.

To witness these modern day miracles feeding the hungry, care for the careworn, love for the sometimes hard to love is to witness God's Kingdom here on earth. Thank you Lord for opening my eyes to your glorious riches.

What a Difference a Summer Makes

2009-09-12T09:34:00.001-04:00

I looked just a few posts back and realized that the last time I posted it was the weekend after Memorial Day. Here we are the weekend after Labor Day. Wow, it looks like I gave myself a summer vacation.

It was a fabulous summer vacation. Thank you very much for asking. I feel refreshed and ready to tackle life again.

Okay, so here's the real reason I've stayed away from blogging. I've struggled with this blog concept. I enjoy journaling about life. I like my blog.

But...

I'm struggling with whether or not to share my journaling publically. Am I just looking for attention? I certainly hope not. Am I embarassing myself with what I do reveal? Writing the true drivel that comes out of my mind does confirm that, "Yes, that's really the stuff she frets over, contemplates, wants to share with the world."

I'd love to chronical our lives just for me. But that certainly isn't blogging, that's scrapbooking. Not to mention Hon is very anti pics of the family on the web.

So to blog publically or not?

I miss it. So even though I don't consider myself a writer at all, I'm just a girl with WAY too much to say in her own head. If I write it rather than stay on the phone 24 hours a day, my friends might actually enjoy talking to me thankyouverymuch.

What is the Question to the Answer 42?

2009-09-12T09:25:00.004-04:00

Fred loves "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy." It makes him belly laugh until he cries tears of joy. I love watching him laugh that hard. Although I've seen the movie twice (the parts where I kept my eyes open) and heard him recite major portions of it to me more times than I remember, I'm not completely clear on the exact story line. Apparently a major part of the story line is they ask some all knowing computer (I think) what the answer to life is, and it says, "42." So the answer becomes a question.

What is the question to the answer 42?

As Fred watched me make alfredo sauce yesterday he finally discovered the question to the answer 42.

"How many tablespoons of butter does it take to make the perfect meal?"

The Difference a Year Makes

2009-06-03T06:00:00.005-04:00

It's amazing the difference a year makes.

While these particular pictures aren't the best at showing how much he's grown, on the left is Fred at the end of 7th grade after the National Jr. Honor Society Induction. On the right was last week, end of 8th grade as he received his pin for NJHS. (I still think parents should at least get a sticker for planning and providing all transportation for the 15 hours of community service.)

As he walked across the stage a mom in front of me commented, "He looks ready for high school. He'll fit in; he's the right size."

She's right. He's ready. And amazingly I am too.

I read a post the other day about a mom wanting to freeze time and stop her kids from getting any bigger because time is moving way too fast. I agree that at times it does move way too fast. I miss squeezing those chubby legs and hearing peals of giggles while playing chase. I also teared up the other day in Target when I saw the graduation supplies and realized we were only 4 short years from that milestone. However, these two years of middle school have also been precious. I love watching Fred grow physically and mature in all ways. Oh, I've worried myself silly and annoyed my friends with endless conversations on the subject of "what in the world are we going to do with Fred?" But I've been blessed that those same worries led me to prayer and granted me God's blessed answers to those prayers. Sometimes we get a glimpse that he does listen to us. We do help form his life and choices. As we as parents grow and release him to make some of his own choices, he makes good ones and gains confidence.

The general opinion in our area is that middle school is tough and once you get to high school it seems a little better. Fred came to me over that little bit of insight yesterday.

He said, "Mom, middle school has been great. I don't know why everyone worries about it. I was thinking on the bus today, that if I liked middle school, its the best school I've ever been in, maybe high school will be awful for me instead."

There's my positive thinker. I assured him that life was only going to get better. I pray it does only get better. I'm going to continue to enjoy his growth. I'll always have me sweet memories of a little boy with a big belly laugh, but I don't want to miss any of the new things to come.

Longest Week Ever

2009-06-02T07:58:00.004-04:00

I just want to state for the record that last week was the longest short week of my life. Having a holiday for Memorial Day only seemed to make the rest of the week more hectic. Adding a barbeque for our Small Group on Monday might not have been the most relaxing way to spend an extra day off. Especially when I spent the first 2 hours stressed that I had not made enough baked beans or bought enough Diet Coke, and what would we do if we ran out of either? Should I send Hon, who was busy entertaining everyone with bocce ball to the store for more? Oh, the dilemna!

You'll be happy to know that the Diet Coke drinkers happily switched to my preferred Diet Pepsi, and we did run out of beans just before the last person went through the buffet line - me. To be honest, I had probably tasted more than a serving's worth while making the woefully small amount of baked beans.

I spent the rest of the week wondering what day it was and why was it not Friday yet. We started swim team practices, tried to start tennis, had many rain outs, a National Junior Honor Society Pinning, and more basketball on top of our normal stuff. Why wonder I'm having trouble pulling myself out of bed before 7 am. I also had a major stand off with the school "powers to be" over the Dude's schedule for middle school.

I know the above paragraph may be boring, but its probably better than a post about each of those events. I'll save myself the time and trouble of long posts and sum up what I learned last week.

1. Always buy 3 2 liters of Diet Coke for our small group. They love the stuff.

2. Keep bandaids on hand for older teenage boys. Apparently bloody hands from using a splinter filled fence as home base is not enough for them to actually use the tree next to the fence instead. Bandaids are a mark of honor.

3. I must be an advocate for my children, even though I hate confrontation. Just because something is the right thing to do and makes sense, does not mean a school system will do it. Unfortunately, the squeaky wheel does get the attention. While that principle makes me steam, my children are well worth it.

4. It's a really good thing I'm already on blood pressure medicine, so I can handle situations like # 3.

5. Saving up all the laundry for a week is a great excuse to finish an excellent book. World Without End was almost as good as Pillars of the Earth. Good enough that I'm already saving up laundry for a re-read.

Balancing Committments and Friendships

2009-05-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week I've made more of an effort to just enjoy some of the special friendships I have. As I mentioned on Monday, lately I've been a little bit of a hermit - Holding on to the little time I have.

You know what? When I look back on the time I hoarded to vacuum, do errands, and let's not forget worry, it's not as valuable as the time I spend laughing with friends.

Both friends I spent time with on Tuesday had almost identical conversations on this subject. And no, I did not bring the same subject up twice. We talked about when we become so busy that we feel stressed and pulled that we push away and hide. Yet, it is time in relationship that brings us comfort and joy.

We all have way too much to do. We all feel the guilt of not "doing it all." Often we push time for friendship out the door first before all the other "necessary" committments in our lives. While I know I personally need a little down time, there is a balance. Yet, that place of balance continuously sifts as the circumstances in our lives shift. I'm just happy that I feel my time of pondering alone at home is over. I'm ready for some giggles with my peeps.

Gorgeous Spring Flower Sale on Lawyers Road

2009-05-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

What a beautiful day filled with gorgeous friends and flowers! Definitely my idea of a the perfect day.

I love how these petals are just drenched in color. The peonies on the verge of opening just looked like velvet begging the ants to touch them.

This beautiful yard/field of flowers is on Lawyers Road here in Fairfax County. Anyone is allowed to come and spend time amazed at God's creativity for as long as they like. Often artists set up and work for the day. It's a dream of mine to do that one today, but today it was a half hour of enjoying God's beauty before heading to a delicious lunch.

This Saturday at 9 am they have their yearly sale. They have gajillion varieties of irises, siberian irises, peonies, and daylillies. I'll go back in early July to see the daylillies.

Taking time to see and enjoy creation. A free gift that restores the soul.

Dreams of Dresses

2009-05-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Colonial Day is coming to the Fourth Grade. I love colonial dresses. For three summers I was in an Summer Stock outdoor drama about the Revolutionary War. I loved my costumes, the petticoats, the mob caps, the tight bodices. I was so excited. I've been dreaming of making a colonial dress for Birdie.

Dreaming would be the key word there wouldn't it.

Birdie has decided she wants to wear a Continental Soldier's uniform. Specifically she wants to be part of the rag tag army of Valley Forge. She's thinks we should tear her shirt some and is worried we won't be able to make it dirty enough. She's probably already planned where to put the blood stains.

My dreams will remain a dream. I could possibly make her a dress along with the soldier's uniform, but I'm pretty sure she'd forcibly put it on once and tell me how much it bothers her.

Maybe one day I'll have a granddaughter who loves bows and dresses. But then her mom will probably make her wear practical pants all the time.

Great Banquet Reminders

2009-05-18T13:55:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was NOVA Great Banquet #32. It's been a year since my Great Banquet weekend. A whole year. Wow. As I sat at the closing ceremony for this year's guests and heard what they had personally learned during their weekend and what they were going to do about it, I, of course, thought about my weekend experience and what I had done about it.

God loves me more deeply than I ever imagined. Have a shared that love with others? Yes, mostly.

Have I felt more secure and been more trusting of His direction?

Ummm....maybe not so much. Just by popping in and out to help a little bit this weekend my eyes were opened to a few new truths. I love how God can use random short conversations to speak to something you've been pondering.

Obedience is the area where I need focus. It's funny how you don't even realize you're being disobedient sometimes. In the last few months, I've been so busy worrying and protecting myself and my time that I have missed the gifts of following God's direction. I've worried what I have to offer certainly is no where near enough or good enough, so I would just wait until I had enough to share. I have begrudingly followed the path He has offered and directed me down, all the while questioning and worrying and stressing and even resenting at times.

I was beautifully reminded by Pastor Glenda that God doesn't ask us to perform the miracle. He asks us to participate and offer what we have. He'll take care of the rest. If I offer up what I have unconditionally, God's glory shines.

I also took time to read over the letters I received last year at the Great Banquet. I sat there pondering, "Where did that generous, fun-loving girl go?" Was that truly me? What happened? I've become quite the hermit the last 6 months. I've found it much easier to push away and do it on my own time table. Yet, I miss the joy and excitement and relationships I treasure. How many times do I have to learn the same lessons?

Quiet time each and every morning builds my relationship with Christ. Enough said. It makes everything better. It makes the times I have no words for prayers, just groans, bearable. There is a light in our home and in me when I begin each day with God. Quick prayers on the run just don't work for me anymore. Halfway putting in a show of effort a few times a week just doesn't cut it. I know this yet, at times I push back. Why?

Lately, I've felt the Spirit encourage me to give up something. I know exactly what. I cannot figure out why in the world I need to do so. A friend pointed out that sometimes it's more about obedience than the what.

I keep asking,
"Why??? Are you sure??? Have I imagined this?"

Yet, this nagging feeling doesn't leave me. I wish I could say I was finally obeying out of a grateful heart. Instead, I'm obeying and praying for God's help to obey. And worrying about when I'll disobey and when I'll get time off for good behavior. I'm also praying I won't have to do this very long, which probably destroys in value of obeying in the first place.

Dearest Lord,
Thanks for your timing in my life. Time for me to realize that You are Lord of all. Thank you for the time to be stubborn, yet still delightfully loved by You. Thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for those brief moments of clarity. I ask forgiveness for my stubbornness and self-centeredness. I beg for your strength to follow and to be filled by Your spirit, so I might know and understand you better. In your son's most holy name. Amen.

Trying to Memorize Scripture

2009-03-23T08:08:00.003-04:00

Memorizing scripture has been on my heart for a while. However, every time I consider trying to memorize scripture I told myself I just couldn't. It would be impossible. Yet this morning when I picked up my stack of index cards where I jot favorite scriptures, I realized today was the day to start. The one on top was a perfect one for my day today.

Above all, let me love others deeply, for love covers a multitude of sins. Let me use whatever gift I have received, faithfully administering your grace in its various forms. Let me serve with the strength that you provide, so in all things you, O Lord, receive the credit and the glory. 1 Peter 4:8-11

I even memorized where the scripture is found. Amazing.

I've also realized that I could. I just didn't want to put forth the effort. In that, I was disobedient to the urging of the Spirit. I also know that listening and following God's urging will bring His blessing to my life. This isn't a hard task to avoid; it's a celebration of God's living word in my life. Thank You, Lord!

Email - stink mail

2009-03-17T19:53:00.002-04:00

I've had so many sweet, touching wonderful God print moments on my mind the last few days. Stories I haven't had the time to write about, even if I could decide how I wanted to tell them. However at this particular moment...

I'm just mad!

Mad at one of my children's teachers. Mad at the situation, how she handles teaching material, and most specifically how she replied to an email I sent asking for guidance and assistance for our child. I asked how we could help, explained how we had helped, and asked which assignment he had not turned in. She gave no direction. She gave a comment about not having homework because although he had his homework, she thought he wasn't prepared the morning after my husband had spent an hour going over the homework with said child.

I'm ticked!

Responding to the email again is useless. I would obviously make things worse in this state of mind. She gave no positive direction. She said the last unit was hard; the next should be easier.

Psthsthsthsthsth!!!! I raspberry this situation. I also pray, I will put it out of my mind.

Spring Weather Alert

2009-03-09T18:49:00.004-04:00

Spring! Spring weather is here!

I've been busy planting new pansies, or better known as deer candy. I also had my first daffodil bloom today. It was one that I brought back from my family farm last spring. I love that the little daffodils I grew up with are now blooming for my kids here. I'm sure we have more cold weather to endure, but I was glad to have the chance to dig in the dirt a little. I also still have time I to draw out my plans for my summer garden. We've already decided to use netting over our hostas this year. Last year most of them were eaten before they had fully leafed.

I also stopped by the first lemonade stand of the season. It's so fun to see everyone excited about the warm weather and daylight savings time. It's amazing that a week ago we were celebrating a snow day!

Prayers for A

2009-03-05T07:55:00.003-05:00

I awoke feeling guilty for complaining about my lovely old lady medicine. I am humbly grateful that there are wonderful medicines for me to take. I just pop two little pills and hopefully these signs of aging will magically disappear, or perhaps miraculously heal would be the better analogy.

There, that's off my chest.

I spoke with my oldest best friend last night. We grew up a few miles from each other. We rode the same bus for hours each day. Our grandparents went to high school together. Our ties and history go way back.

We don't get the chance to talk everyday, but we can dive right into the deep stuff and completely understand where the other one is coming from. K was trying to explain to a co-worker how she loves to hear the snow fall. Her co-worker thought she was crazy, but I understood immediately. I grieve for my children that they haven't had the chance to stand in the field on the farm where I grew up and listen to the snow fall. To watch the trees across the field glisten with ice and hear them creak and crack as the wind blows. It's hard to describe the wonder of feeling like the only one in a snow storm.

K's dear grandma A is on my heart. She's 94. She and my granddaddy were the leads in their high school senior play. Picturing that cracks me up. K's grandma is finally suffering from memory problems. And she realizes it. She's so frustrated. As Grandma A says, "This medicine is not fixing my brain!" (Her normal meds aren't supposed to, but she's forgotten what her medications treat.)

So today, I lift up prayers for a dear woman who loves the Lord with all her heart, yet fears the next step of her life's journey. I pray that God brings peace to the wonderful women in their family that will so deeply grieve her passing, someday, and at the same time celebrate her birth into eternal life with God. I pray they have the time together to say the deep feelings on their hearts and that God's fingerprints are all over this experience so that their faith grows exponentially. Amen.

Another Day Another Trip to the Doctor

2009-03-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Hello. My name is Katie. I am 39 years old. Not yet 40, just 39. Until a month ago, I was a pretty healthy 39 year young woman. My hip aches since the birth of our baby 10 years ago, but hey, we all have some aches. Right?

Today, I am headed out to pick up two old lady prescriptions. A month ago, my biggest worries about turning 40 was what kind of new wrinkle cream to try and should I cut my hair short again or would I look ridiculous trying to grow it long.

I looked at my doctor this morning and said, "What the ?????" I haven't been in here 4 times in the last 4 years. I've been to the doctor 5 times in 8 days, I have an irritated hiatal hernia that you keep reminding me happens with age, and now you're telling me I have to come back in two weeks to see if this blood pressure medicine you're prescribing works.

I'm really glad he didn't check my blood pressure right then.

The good news is that I can take both my old lady pills together. Then I can have a nice warm cup of tea. Not coffee, of course. Boy that sure does make me look forward to getting up each morning. Of course as my dear husband keeps reminding me aging is better than not aging. I personally think my genes have already signed me up for AARP.

This hernia better feel better soon, because if I get any other old lady news I'm going to need a drink.

Winter Basketball '09

2009-03-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

We are a basketball family. My dear husband played quite a bit of basketball growing up and has passed that love on to our children. Now, our children are not super stars, except in my eyes, but I dearly love to watch them play. I love to see their enjoyment of the game and how they improve each season. I get so into the game that I never remember to take any pictures if I happen to take my camera.

This season was not a great one for the Dude and Hon's team. Hon coaches the Dude's team. In fact, they lost abysmally last weekend in their first game of the playoffs. I can't say anyone played near their normal level. There was no heart in the game. What I have loved about this season are those beautiful moments when the Dude pulls it all together. His long arms strongly snatch a rebound from the boards then gracefully arc as he throws up a shot that falls through the net. Those are the moments of this season that I'll remember, and how much he moves just like his dad in those seconds. He's still building his confidence. He probably took less than a quarter of the shots he could have, but all that will come in time. He loves playing, and he loves that his dad is coaching. I also want to remember that this is the season he finally dribbled down the court. The Dude is a defensive player. He's all about the rebound and passing the ball. It takes yelling from the sidelines for him to take the wide open shot. However, he stepped up a few times this season when his team needed him to and dribbled. Oh, the joy of seeing his self-confidence bloom.

Birdie's team had an even worse season than The Dude. Her team lost every game. It takes a strong will to keep fighting when you lose every game by double digits. The sad part was that her team had several good players. Every good player needs some kind of offense is the lesson learned this season. Yet, this was a great season for Birdie. She got the opportunity to play point guard and loved it. She still does not like to be pushed or bumped at all, but she will toughen up in time and hopefully the refs will call more fouls. She so loves every sport she plays. Last week the weather was spring like and she was outside shooting every afternoon. One afternoon I quietly watched Fred playing with her. I don't think I've ever seen him so encouraging and kind with her. He was teaching her how to stand tall to better block the shot. Another moment to remember.

One last bragging moment by a so proud mom. Both Birdie and The Dude made All-Stars for the first time. They are both thrilled. I'm glad there's more b-ball to watch.

Another Sign of Aging

2009-03-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

Not too long ago I vainly prayed that God would help me realize when my stomach was full so I would stop over eating. Boy if the last month was God's answer, I beg forgiveness for my vanity.

I've been having a little tummy trouble lately. And no, I am not pregnant. Funny how the doctor never asked that question while I listed my complaints. I guess as the mother of three he figured I know the difference between morning sickness and this new pain and nausea.

One thing I've learned during this little episode is that everyone has their own tummy story. As a woman who until recently had a stomach of steel, I didn't realize that so many people go through some stomach/intestinal distress. I'm pretty sure this is one of the less publicized joys of aging. Everyone hears so much about gray hair, wrinkles, aching backs and joints, weight gain with age...however tummy troubles are pretty quiet.

Another lesson on life's journey. Sometimes your body changes unexpectedly. I'm very thankful for a little purple pill that's allowing me to eat again. Today the doctor will take a look inside and try to figure out what's going on. I'm feeling so much better with this new medicine I'm pretty sure all will be well soon.

Snow Day???

2009-03-01T19:18:00.003-05:00

I love, love, love a snow day.

A couple of weeks ago beautiful big flakes came down just as Fred headed off for the bus. The weather report let me know that the suddenly white grass would soon be green again, but I just wanted to put on a heavier sweater and cuddle up on the couch for the day. Even though the roads only got wet we took today as a snow day. It looks like I might be getting a real one tomorrow.

There's something restorative about a snow day. (That is if your kids can put on their own snow clothes.) Our schedules are so busy, and we have so many MUST do's that I love the opportunity to be forced to stay home. The world is washed clean, and the noise of traffic muffled under the beauty of white. I really look forward to the chance to sit in silence and watch the snow fall for a day.

Enjoy! Of course, I need the roads to be clear by 1pm tomorrow. (More about that later.) Luckily Hon grew up in Rochester and loves to leave the first tire tracks anywhere. He might just get that chance.

My Little Dude

2009-02-18T18:00:00.002-05:00

The Dude is the classic middle child. He runs under the radar most of the time. He's the peace maker and doesn't like to be the center of attention. He'd rather cover up his brother's or sister's mistakes than watch them get in trouble.

The Dude is really sweet and his presence has been such a comfort. He's always been the one who wants me to tell our family's funny stories over and over. He's also the one that always wants to hang out with the adults to hear every word we say. Since he was a baby he's been a great observer. He may not say much, but he is listening to every word and intuitively picks up on all the non-verbal language exchanged. He was born with a gift to understand others by observing them.

He's also just funny. Although I'm irritated the eighth time in one day when he hides and jumps out of me so I scream and wet my pants, I do appreciate his effort. I really like it when I know he's hiding, and I get the chance to scare him first. I love that at home he's cuddly and still wants tons of hugs. I love that he loves to play. Outdoors, indoors, any game. He's made good friends at school and loves recess. During tennis season he asked the coach to run suicides. His dad was so proud.

He actually loves school. I know it's the social side, not the work, but he usually doesn't mind the work too much. As he grows he becomes more confident in himself. That's been the neat thing to watch this year. His confidence at school, with friends, and on the basketball and tennis courts has grown. It's great to see him proud of himself rather than trying to hide in his own skin.

I just love my little Dude.

Things a Parent Never Wants to Happen

2009-02-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Much of the worry that Hon and I contemplated the other night at dinner has stemmed from being close to another family. This dear family is going through something with one of their children that we never want to face.

Our children are their own people. They will make choices and mistakes that shock us at times. We cannot control their entire lives and actions. Children of good parents make bad choices. Still, that doesn't let me off the hook. We need to take our role in forming their ideas and morals seriously.

Hon and I are really looking at our parenting. Are we doing what we need to do as parents? Are we doing what we should? How do we help our children form the love for God, morals, ethics, sense of self-worth and responsibility they will require as adults? It is a huge undertaking.

My heart is broken for our dear friends. At some point in my children's lives they are going to do something I can't even imagine. I know I did this to my parents. I had my own difficult lessons to learn on my own terms. So will our children. However, this has been a wake-up call for Hon and I. We don't always do the right thing. We have let our selfish desires over ride better choices for our kids. We've been known to take the easier, less confrontational way out. It's time to stand up and make sure our kids are learning the lessons they need now to become successful as adults. (And by successful, I mean happy, at peace, and God loving. Preferably with a good job.)

In the middle of this panic of "Are we doing our job as parents?", there have been gracious God moments. Little things that unless you lived our unique flavor of crazy they probably wouldn't mean a whole lot to you. Fred used a fork with his strawberries just to make his dad happy the other night. This is right after Hon and I had a long private discussion about who should continue to point out Fred's lacksadaisical table manners. Everyone cuddling up for family time at night with little prompting. Watching my shy children try to smile and shake hands with new people at church. Enjoying the laughter and silliness. Feeling the love. Letting their dad give them pointers at the bowling alley and enjoying a great score.

I have the huge gift of being home with the kids each day. I drive them crazy with my questions and always having one more little chore they could do for me as they walk through the room. Luckily, I get the gifts of their long-winded moments in the car running errands when I can actually learn about their days. I get to kiss them goodbye as they head off to school.

I pray they someday realize the effort their dad puts in with them. How he plays games with them not for himself. How he makes them help with a project not for their assistance but for their companionship and education. How he, not mom, goes to every game and most practices. How he'll read a book while yet another Disney show on TV instead of the game to be in the same room with them. I hope they realize his love language is the time he spends with them.

I pray for our dear friends. I pray they realize how God is standing right beside them in this catastrophe. I pray that the correct lessons are learned and lives are changed. I pray that God has this situation firmly in His hands for His good purpose.

Gran Torino

2009-02-17T08:53:00.004-05:00

So who's seen Gran Torino?

It was fabulous. I'll admit it was not my first choice for a Valentine's Day date movie, but I loved it. This was classic Clint. Rough and gruff, even growly, but you still wanted to just give him a hug and go get him that next cold one.

However, it really hit some nerves for my dear husband. We spent all of our romantic dinner after the movie talking about our kids and how to stay connected. My husband was deeply feeling the challenge all parents feel. How to guide our children, which can often require firmness and critique of their actions, yet still having a loving a close relationship. How do you help them become worthwhile people without making them hate you in the process?

Yes, there was way more to Gran Torino than foul language and racism.

As I reminded Hon, sometimes when you're in the middle of the game, you can't know the final score. We're not finished raising our kids. They still needed to be reminded about table manners. (Will we ever get past that?) Luckily, there's still time for us to continue to model and mold, and they will go through the molting process before they leave our nest. The point is not to give up and continue to find ways to laugh and love along the way.

My husband's worry just makes me love him that much more. He wants to be close with all our children. He worries about raising responsible, respectful adults. In the process of making them better people, he doesn't want to damage his future relationship with them. It's a careful balance. We can't know if we're doing it the right way.

I pray that God continues to mold Hon and I to be the parents He would have us to be.

Here I Am

2009-02-03T08:06:00.005-05:00

This is so pitiful. It's been so long since I blogged I really didn't remember what my current header looked like.

Pitiful, just pitiful.

So while I've been off doing who knows what, along with exploring the world of Facebook where you only need to write a sentence for an update, my blogging has taken a backseat. This morning, however, I caught myself blogging in my prayer journal. It could be time to try again. Rather than start on the sappiness that appeared in my journal this morning I'll leave you with this glimpse into my life.

Last night as I dropped Fred off at art he started to close the car door. I called his name; and as he peaked back into the car, I told him I loved him.

He smiled!

And I praised God for the miracle of seeing a smile on his 13 year old face.

This morning still high off the smile from last night, I gave him a big hug before he left for school and told him how proud I was of him and that I love him.

This morning...I got the big eye roll as he stomped out the door to school. Who was I to think that lightening could strike the same place twice.

Lying in a Manger

2008-12-18T09:01:00.007-05:00

My heart and stomach are tied together. Are yours?

Anytime I want to comfort, I turn to food. Anytime I want to celebrate, I turn to food. I have so many happy memories of cooking with my grandma and just being in her kitchen. It was the heart of her home.

Where is the heart of your home? Where does everyone gather when you have people over? I'm willing to bet that unless you specifically push them in another direction everyone ends up standing in the kitchen gabbing for hours.

I got a new giggle about the Christmas story this morning.

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:6-7

Jesus was laid in the manager. Which, if you're following my kitchen is the heart of a home theory, is the heart of the stable. God incarnate, the bread of life and living water was laid in a manger. He came to be the center of our lives. He comes to satisfy us with overflowing grace and love. He awaits us each morning, at every meal, and in all the moments of our lives to fill us with that which makes us whole.

And he was laid in a manger.

I love God! He makes me smile. :)

My Titus 2 Women

2008-12-16T07:44:00.004-05:00

A few years ago I heard about the guidance of a Titus 2 woman for the first time. If you're clueless like I was, a Titus 2 woman is an older, wiser women that gives godly advice and lives a godly example for other women. She would guide you through those first years of marriage when you are quickly figuring out that a ring, dress, and romance does not complete the work of marriage. She would point you in the right direction and ask the difficult questions about your faith life to encourage growth.

I have to say, when I heard about a Titus 2 woman, I looked around and asked,

"And just where is my Titus 2 woman, Lord? My grandma is my role model, but You called her home 2 months after we got married. I could use a great role model."

Yeah, that's all me. Whining to the Lord.

As usual...He was already on it.

I have been abundantly blessed by the godly example of several women in the last two years. I am sure they would want me to point out that they are not very much older than me at all, but they are much, much wiser. The Lord has also opened my eyes, ears, and heart so I could pay attention to them. We build each other up by discussing not just our lives and problems but by discussing where we see God in the midst of everything. My heart fills with love for them when I think of these dear women. My heart overflows with love for God when I realize how much He loves me through these women.

Sometimes I feel like quite the little copycat around them. I'm almost embarrassed to tell them that I'm now trying something I saw them doing. However they keep doing such good things, that I just have to try them myself.

This morning my devotion by Henri Nouwen was "Faith is Nurtured In Friendship." Mr. Nouwen spoke of how God wants us to form friendships and community where His grace can grow to fullness and bear fruit. I know I have been blessed with this type of community and friendship. I pray God gives me the love and strength to bear the fruit He desires in my life.

May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant yo to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6

Greetings

2008-12-09T07:51:00.004-05:00

Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you. Luke 1:28b

What a wonderful way to begin.

This greeting from Gabriel to Mary was on a day she would never forget. The day she learned that not only was she highly favored by God, but that he had big, BIG plans for her. Plans not just to change her life, but plans to change the world.

I'm still overwhelmed by the greeting. Not only was Mary highly favored, but each of us (as explained in Luke 11:27-28 in my study Bible) is highly favored by God. We are all dear to Him. He has plans for each and everyone of us. While the plans for our lives probably don't involve a virgin birth (I know I'm not going to have that task), He has important plans for each of us. Anyone who has accepted the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit into their lives has the Lord with them each and every moment. The Lord is with us. When we obey His commands to love the Lord our God and our neighbors as ourselves we are highly favored.

I just have to sit back and treasure this gift.

Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.

I think I'm going to write that on the front of my prayer journal. Each morning I can smile as I read His greeting that I know extends to me also.

What a wonderful way to begin each day!

E-mealz, Making Meal Planning a Cinch

2008-11-21T07:29:00.000-05:00

I was reading a blog the other day where a mom for a family of four who spends $300 dollars a month at the grocery store was trying to figure out how to cut her food budget. I just about fell out of my chair. I was impressed. I have no idea how to feed my family for so little. We do like the chips and cookies at our house. If I could just cut my food budget I'd be thrilled.

I struggle with meal times.

Actually I struggle more with meal planning. You know exactly what I mean. It's 5:30, you're standing in the kitchen alternating between opening the refrigerator and the pantry. You're praying a healthy, delicious meal idea jumps onto the stove for you and is ready in the next half hour.

Over the years I've made some progress in this area. I've tried fancy cookbooks that layout the week's menu. I've tried cook ahead meal planning. I've resorted to actually sitting down, meal planning for the week, shopping, and trying to cook it. Yet, I know I haven't been very cost effective in my methods.

It's the planning that gets to me.

Well, have I found a solution. And....the whole family loves it!

It's called e-mealz.com. You can pick from several different plans: regular, low-fat, low-carb, vegetarian, couples, and you can even pick where you shop. Then they give you a 7 meal plan for the week with an organized shopping list. I love the shopping list. It's organized by areas of the grocery store, it tells which meal each item goes for, and there's plenty of room for adding other things I need. It's reasonable cost-wise. Best of all, our family has loved the meals, and they're easy to cook. On one sheet of paper, that I tape inside a cabinet door, are the meals and how to prepare them for the week. I just downloaded the next two weeks of menus, and I'm excited. They look delicious.

Okay that's enough free advertising for the day. I've got to check to see what else I need from the grocery store and try to figure out the best place to buy a warm hooded fleece jacket. Apparently the warm coats I bought the boys last winter don't work, because you know they're puffy and warm looking. My boys would rather die of hypothermia than look warm.

But You'll Be Cold...

2008-11-07T07:30:00.002-05:00

Good news! I'm back to worrying about if the kids did their homework or studied for their tests.

I'm one of those moms. I'm going to be one my whole life. You know, the ones who ask if you need a jacket when you're sweating.

"You might get cold waiting for the bus," I reason.

"Are you sure?" I ask, knowing the answer.

This morning, on cue, I asked if he wanted his jacket. He looked back with the hint of a grin, to judge my reaction, and declared,

"It's warm!"

I noticed the need for him to make his own decision and more importantly for me not to push my opinion. I lowered the unnecessary jacket and watched my growing boy/man head down the street towards the bus.

I pray I will see the opportunities for him to make his own choices to learn the lessons he needs to become a man. Choosing a jacket or not is so small compared to some of the choices he'll need to make in this lifetime. There will be much more difficult moments when he'll make choices I'll really want to protest. I pray God leads me to be the mother he needs to become a God seeking man.

Dragging It Out

2008-09-17T18:19:00.004-04:00

I had a rotten day yesterday. It was one of those days that I couldn't even stand myself. My kids were so sweet. As I laid comatose on the couch they occasionally came over and gave me a kiss and asked if I was alright. I felt loved in the pit of my self-created misery.

Today was better.

Thank God!

But I'm not myself yet. And I feel guilty for still feeling fragile and teary. (And I really like beginning sentences with conjunctions even though I totally know it's against the rules.)

A dear friend inquired after my husband today. I told her he's doing much better; improving everyday. She then asked how I was. I said, "Now that he's getting better, I'm a wreck."

"But weren't you a wreck last week?" She asked...stated??

Well, yes, yes, I was.

But (there's one of those conjunctions) it's a different wreck. At first it was the "I'm so tired I can't see straight wreck," followed by the "Oh, my goodness, he's still in the hospital ,and I'm even more tired wreck," followed by the "Now, we're home, and school is starting wreck," followed even more closely and lasting way too long with the "He has an infection, and will it get better, and will the doctor stop hurting him" empathy pain wreckedness.

I'm in the almost-healed wreck phase of "Oh, my goodness, I could have lost him, and now I can relax a little and let out all those feelings I've been shoving deep down." I know my friends are quite shocked that I was actually holding anything back, but apparently I feel the need to wallow in this situation for a while.

I sure am looking forward to the days when I'm back to worrying about if the kids did their homework or studied for their tests.

Trying to See the Positive

2008-09-15T09:41:00.008-04:00

Feeling normal and like myself is only a temporary relief so far. Some days are good, some not so good, some should be good and I just want to cry. My worries, real and highly overly imagined, get to me. Then when I think of what could have been, but didn't happen...Well, I just can't let myself think about that. I'm still on this roller coaster of recovery where every sigh, grimace, and uncomfortable shift leads to more worrying.

It would be a lot easier to whine if my husband would start whining himself. The most he does is sigh really deeply. Occasionally he'll grab his side. Maybe if he was whining I would know it was just the normal everyday stuff you whine about. Instead he is stoic, strong, resolute. But I know him.

He has an incision that isn't healing that the doctor likes to poke and stir, and he refuses to whine. How am I ever going to feel justified in whining about a paper cut again?

I'm pretty sure I'll find a way. In fact, as I re-read this it occurred to me that I'm whining about him not whining. Mercy me!

So while I'd like to rant and rave about all the little things that irritate me and that I do not like this roller coaster of emotions I am on, not one little bit, I think I'll try a little positive thinking.

1. I like our walks. I'm actually starting to feel really good from them. Even though we don't have much to say I enjoy the time together.

2. I like that when he's not feeling so good he just wants me to come sit in the same room with him. If he had a cold or something this would irritate me, but I know that he doesn't feel good. Somehow my presence comforts him...if I don't ask too many questions.

3. Having Hon home this much has given him the opportunity to approach a few difficult conversations with our 13 year old. Conversations that would have ended in an argument if I'd had them. Somehow Hon and Fred have found a common language with out all the mama drama. I am sooo grateful for that!

4. I'm thankful that all our friends brought us brownies after brownies. I really like brownies. Brownies will definitely help you through a difficult time. I knew that Hon was on the road to recovery one night when he asked for a brownie. After one bite he said, "You know what would make this even better?"

"Another brownie and some vanilla ice cream." :)

Rambling Like Usual

2008-09-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

We are starting to feel a little normal around here again. I am approaching my usual level of craziness and feel like myself.

Welcome back me!

You know how you always hear about those strong, women who hold up so well in crisis. They remain spirit filled, graceful, and composed.

All illusions of being a little bit like those women went out the window during the last few weeks.

I think I've handled many things reasonably well in the past 5 years. But this little escapade jerked my feet right out from under me. I don't ever care to go through something like this again. And in the back of my mind, I know we've been so lucky. Hon feels stronger and better each day. This will not drag out for years. We're not searching for a cure. But it has been scary, terrifying, frustrating, and painful.

YUCK!

I stinks to watch the one you love go through pain, and know there will be more necessary pain on the road to wellness.

Hon's surgeon, who we're getting to know all too well, commented that you know it's love when the healthy spouse hurts as much as the one having the procedure. I hurt for Hon, but we can agree that what he's going through hurts much more than my empathy.

All that yuckiness aside, I am feeling like me again. The numbness is fading, my tears are subsiding, and gratefulness and a feeling of God's presence is returning. What I realized this morning is that you can't start to process an event in your life until you're past it. Sometimes as God carries you through you can trust in his love for you and know He hears your prayers even if don't know you're praying.

Adding Skills to My Resume One Chuckle at A Time

2008-09-13T12:54:00.003-04:00

There have been many stinky moments figuritively, realistically, and all the -ly's inbetween in the last 2 1/2 weeks. However, that makes our funny moments all that more enjoyable and laughable. Granted, we laugh at some inappropriate times at this point because laughing feels better than crying sometimes.

This morning I have entertained myself greatly.

I decided it was time to edge the yard. The boys were mowing and certainly I could handle edging with a weed eater.

Certainly...in an alternative universe maybe.

It only took me about 5 minutes to get the weed eater started. I was pleased things had started on a high note. I then proceeded to "edge" along the driveway. That is if your definition of "edge" means to throw dirt, grass, and weeds onto our roof while digging a trench. I definititely was getting the hang of "edging."

As I created yet another curlicue swirl in my husband's grass I looked up to him standing in our front doorway.

He did not look as impressed as I felt.

He was not laughing with glee like I was.

"I don't know what the h*$$ I'm doing," I called out.

He agreed with me there.

So I got a quick tutorial in edging. I'm pretty sure I didn't follow the instructions. I'm also pretty sure I won't be giving up this life of leisure I'm living to become a professional landscaper. In fact, I'm pretty sure Hon's going to feel up to edging sooner than he should.

At least I find myself funny.

Numbness

2008-09-03T07:43:00.006-04:00

As I was preparing to write the whiniest, pity party of a post of my life, God just gave me a good chuckle.

My son The Dude is very reserved. To get dressed he keeps his door locked and his towel wrapped around his waist while he puts on his shirt and pulls up his underwear. He cries out in agony when he walks in on his mom, me, getting dressed.

His grandma just went into his room to wake him up wrapped only in a towel. He either raced for his bathroom to escape the terror or dove deeper under the covers never to emerge again. Hee-hee-hee.

So where does that leave my whiny post?

I wanted to cry and have a little pity party about how although I know we've been covered in God's love and care for the past week, our full lives actually, that I feel numb. I'm having trouble hearing God or even praying the way I usually do. My prayers are still desperate cries for help. Just the words, "Help!", or "Please!" and once , "You better fix this God!.......Please?"

I'm in a place I don't understand and I worry about how long I'll be here and the flood that might come when I'm not.

I know with more rest things will look better. We have so much to be thankful. But there is still the numbness. And the only emotions that get through are punchy laughter or tears.

A dear, spectacular banana bread toting woman stopped by yesterday while I was trying to nap. When I asked Hon who it was he replied, "You know that girl we talk to at church."

Funny enough that actually narrowed it down. I asked how her visit went and Hon said,
"She said something...I cried..I'm an emotional wreck."

All we could do was laugh.

Writing this nonsense actually helps.

Hon thought he had food poisoning last Monday night. When he couldn't stand up Tuesday morning, we knew we were headed to the Emergency Room. It turns out his appendix ruptured, and he spent 6 days in the hospital. We have been surrounded by the love and care of our dear friends and family. It was an exhausting week. It gets a little better each day. I pray his recovery is filled with love between us. My love and sympathy goes out to those who suffer so much more than our mere week in the hospital.

Washington DC for Toddlers

2008-08-21T06:00:00.001-04:00

Our darling almost 2 year old niece came to visit last week. She was smart and brought her beautiful mom with her. She spent a lot of time doing this.

And this...

She wasn't a morning person and certainly didn't want any early morning close-ups.

She also spent a lot of time following around her big cousin Birdie. She called her, "Dos." She also spent a fair amount of time saying, "Here, Dos. Here, Dos."

Of course, we took her downtown to see all the patriotic sites. She particularly liked any that involved water.

Shortly after this adorable picture we attempted to broaden her horizons by showing her more great works of art. She was less than enthusiastic. In fact, as she loudly let us know exactly what she thought of art when compared to playing in the water, we were asked to immediately exit the National Gallery of Art. The security guard referred to her squeals of protest as, "That is just totally unacceptable." We nodded in agreement as we darted for the exit.

Luckily, we found a few more water features at the Botanical Gardens. We didn't let her climb in there either.

She was quite impressive as she fought off the older kids so she could carry the watering can. She might have learned the word flag that day, but mostly we'll remember her joy of playing in the water.

Best, Most Awesome Summer Smoothies

2008-08-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

Doesn't that frosty goodness look absolutely delicious?

Trust me and 5 kids on a 90 degree day. It was spectacular.

It makes me question why it's only taken Birdie 2 months to convince me to try making smoothies. Even though I bought the frozen fruit for them 6 weeks ago, I'll admit it. I was scared. What if I didn't like them? There's plain yogurt in smoothies. What if it actually tasted nutricious? What if only my kids liked them and not me?

Yeah, I know. I'm still not up for mother of the year.

Healthy or not, I'm considering making another round.

I'll let you other non-smoothie drinkers in on a little secret. It tasted surprisingly similar to a strawberry adult drink I enjoyed while the kids were at camp last week. I'm even considering buying some of that health conscious protein powder to add to them for breakfast. Do you suppose I might be able to get a little protein into my carb-a-holic 13 year old with these frosty delights? Whoo-hoo!

If you too are new to the smoothie idea, here's how we made them.

Berry Delicious Smoothies

2 cups frozen strawberries, blackberries, blueberries
1/2 cup vanilla low-fat yogurt
1/4 to 1/2 cup 1% milk
A few splashes of cranberry-apple juice

Place all ingredients into blender and puree until smooth.

ENJOY WITH A SMILE!

Seeing the Benefits in a Dreaded Shot

2008-08-18T18:20:00.003-04:00

Fred hates shots. As in truly believes they will actually kill him. Even though he's not died from a shot yet, he's convinced the next one could do it, but only after extensive pain. From age 7 until age 10 he obsessed about getting a tetanus booster shot. When the day finally came I thought they'd have to knock him and me out before it was all over. While he has come leaps and bounds from the days when we had to administer Valium before the shot (him not me), every doctor's visit is prefaced with, "I don't need a shot, do I?"

A few weeks ago I took all three kids in for a check up. The Dude was due the 11 year old shot. Fred was in the clear. Until the doctor started talking about a meningitis inoculation. Fred instantly picked up that he'd need one also. Hyperventilation was quickly looking like a good option to him. In the end, he decided that he'd rather go ahead and take the pain that day instead of freaking out about the shot until he finally got it.

Fast forward to all three kids came home from camp with sore throats and generally feeling yucky. I asked questions about how they felt and we wondered whether it was a virus or maybe strep, Fred announced, "At least we know we don't have gingivitis!"

As I stared dumbly at him and wondered how many times he actually used his toothbrush at camp...I realized he meant meningitis. And yes, yes, we could rule out gingivitis and probably meningitis while we were at it.

A Temporary Interruption to the Blogging Hiatus

2008-08-18T08:55:00.003-04:00

So I guess it's pretty obvious that I took quite the blogging hiatus. I wish it was because we were frolicking across several continents, but alas it wasn't.

In truth, I had concerns about continuing to blog...probably still have. I keep up with several blogs that I dearly love, but I just don't have the desire to be that public with my life. And yet what is a blog, if not public. I think I actually like looking in on someone else's life, which made me finally realize that having a blog wasn't as much about writing as giving someone a glimpse into my life. Yikes!!

A blogger I really admire commented that blogging is building a community, and if you're not interested in building a blogging community by reading and commenting on other blogs you might as well just journal in a notebook. Let me just tell you that kind of pressure just about made me hit the delete button on my blog.

Any reader is hereafter warned. All content of this blog is only suitable for a wide ruled spiral bound notebook.

I read a few other blogs that often seem like a listing of their accomplishments to prove how and why they are a great mother and/or Christian. Let me also state that I am not Michael Phelps. I crumble in the face of competition. If you want to be the best at something so badly, go for it. You can win. I make myself crazy enough without comparing my lack of accomplishments to another's alphabetized list. I will fail in my own eyes everytime, let alone being judged by others. I'm still working on me and my motherhood techniques, and I have lots to learn about God and all other aspects of life.

So why on earth did I ever log back into Blogger?

For me. I like to keep a journal. And I like this format. Lately, I've noticed the kids telling stories with details I no longer remember. I was once such a crazy detail remember-er. Here's my place to remember and think things out. If no one ever reads it, it's okay with me. If someone drops by and comments. Excellent.

Oh, there's more self-induced and busy life angst behind my little blogging hiatus, but luckily it appears that I'm going to recover from my summer of lists, lists, and more lists to be accomplished. So if finally looks like I'll have time to pencil blogging back onto my daily list.

A Special Day

2008-07-08T06:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Grandpa!!!

We're so lucky to have you to lead us up mountains and keep us gathered at the dinner table. You are well loved and respected.

A Couple of New Mottos

2008-07-07T14:59:00.004-04:00

I got this cute little hugger for my birthday. I was considering ordering a bunch for all my friends, but then realized I might offend those friends who are circulating the sign up sheets.However, I do think the hugger below uses a softer tone. I should pass these out the first day of school.
You can find these here.

We've Lost the Vacation in Summer Vacation

2008-06-25T08:10:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I think I've become a curmugeon already. I've forgotten that life should just be fun at times. Each year I seem to get a little more uptight and anxious. I'm so worried about doing the right thing, the right way, that I forget to just let loose and have a little fun. Point in fact, it's the 12th day of summer vacation, yet I'm so worried about having summer activities and not just wasting the summer away that we haven't had a chance to relax yet.

I finally squeezed in one measely 10 minute nap in the last 12 days.

In the name of summer laziness. That's just not right!!!

So here's to relaxing and re-discovering my funny bone. I'm pretty sure it's hiding with my lazy bones.

One for the Parents

2008-06-24T13:56:00.003-04:00

We ran smack into the joy of having a 13 year old the last two weeks. Most of the episodes included my husband and I looking at each other and saying,

"It's finally here, isn't it? Years and years of teenagers with attitudes have just started."

As I said to a friend last weekend, "Twelve was glorious. Goofy, funny, delightful. Thirteen, ummm, not so much."

Monday Fred admitted that he's been rather grouchy. I was glad he noticed. To give him credit his mood swings are quite sudden. He can be laughing with us, all of us having fun, and then suddenly exclaim, "You're laughing at me!! Are you just trying to be mean to me?" and then stomp out of the room.

Hon and I are left agreeing, "Yes, we were laughing...and so we you just a minute ago."

Teenagers. It's a new, not so normal.

This summer in an effort to stretch his mind a little more we've decided to guide his reading more directly. (Yes, this is proof to him that we're horribly mean.) After quite a few ~~tantrums~~ dramatic out bursts, we just picked up the first 3 books we choose from his reading list.

He skimmed one in the car on the way home. He then came home and started reading another one. Excitedly, I might add.

I'll score that as one for the mean old parents. I'll take the joy any way I can find it.

Home Tours

2008-06-24T10:46:00.002-04:00

"Shut the back door. We don't want to air condition the neighborhood!!"

Anyone ever utter those words at your house?

We now have an even better reason to close the back door. This morning a chipmunk decided to drop in for a quick tour. While the boys and I walked around on our tip toes hoping to scare the chipmunk back outside with our added height, our fearless protector, Wink, laid on the front rug. Finally, when he got up to see why we were all walking in circles, on tip toes no less. He noticed our visitor and quickly escorted him back into the yard.

Sharing Faith

2008-06-09T12:15:00.004-04:00

I stumbled across Angie Smith's blog, Bring the Rain , last week. If you have time it's worth a read beginning to end, or you could start here, but bring your kleenexes. You might ask why I would suggest reading about someone else's pain? As Angie wrote in a post last week, if I can carry just a bit of their grief for them it is worth it. God is working miracles in their lives through this difficult season. I pray His comfort, love, and peace surrounds them.

Angie's post, The Threshing Floor, is a beautiful example of God's word being revealed as you so dearly need it.

May God be with them. May they worship God joyfully and expectantly.

Power Washing for Fun and Entertainment

2008-06-06T08:11:00.003-04:00

Who knew power washing a deck was so much fun?

Now, I know why my husband has never let me touch one before, and why most men I know get all excited about the prospect of owning their own power washer.

A big thanks to my friend Lisa who let me borrow their power washer. Although I have no prior power washing experience, I figured if my dear friend Karen (who did not learn to pump gas until after college) can handle her family's deck maintenance, I definitely had to give it a try.

As I told Hon, "If I do a horrible job, we simply hire someone to do it after all."

Oh, baby, I've found a whole new skill set. I have a feeling that my yearly deck power washing and re-sealing will be a highlight of the spring cleaning season. I can even put it on my stay-at-home-mom resume. It would of course go under specialty skills, not under necessary skills like: wipes noses, does homework, sews costumes, soothes childhood angst, looks for lost items, all while cooking dinner skills.

My Stay-at-Home-Mom Specialty Skills

Spreads dump trucks full of mulch each spring
Solves electricity and circuit breaker issues caused by...
Outdoor Christmas lighting schemes
blows up and repairs small appliances at inopportune moments
assembles furniture
deck power washing for fun and entertainment

One small note of caution to anyone else who tries their hand at power washing. Umm...as you power wash small bits of debris will start to cover your feet and legs. Rinsing your legs and feet off with aforementioned power washer...not your best idea. I only wish I could remember that little tidbit of wisdom.

Anyone willing to take bets on how many times I pulverize my toes today???

But I Don't Want to Get Up

2008-06-03T06:52:00.003-04:00

The days of having a teenager who acts like a teenager have started. Fred's shower ran long yesterday morning, so I went upstairs to knock on his bathroom door and tell him to hurry it up. However, while the shower had been running for 20 minutes, the door to the bathroom was open, and the no one was in there.

???

As I said, "Fred, where are you???"

A moan sounded from the mound under the covers. The stinker had turned on the shower and climbed back into bed.

That is way more resourceful than the way I used to just hang my foot over the side of the bed and stomp the floor to try and fool my parents into thinking I was out of bed. :)

Family Time - a Treasure Indeed

2008-06-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

The Dude turned 11 last week and learned an important fact.

Family time is important to him.

Hon had to travel on the Dude's birthday. It's happened to all of us before. Sometimes you have to celebrate your birthday on another day or without someone very important to you. However, this didn't sit very with the Dude this year. He couldn't explain why his birthday didn't seem as great as normal, but I was pretty sure I knew what the problem was. Even though I'd made pancakes for breakfast, decorated his room with streamers, took donuts to his class, he'd opened presents, had cake, and his favorite pizza for dinner something just wasn't right.

So, the day after his birthday we headed out for a family dinner to celebrate. All was right with the world again. Towards the end of the meal I leaned over and asked the Dude if it finally felt like his birthday. With a grin as big as the sky, he nodded and said, "Yeah!"

What did he treasure most?

The photo of his family at the dinner. You would have thought it was made of gold.

I knew I love that kid for a reason.

A good time was had by us all, because as we climbed in the car afterwards, Birdie said,

"I don't know how to say that place's name, but I am definitely coming back!"

What Is He Thinking???

2008-05-31T07:36:00.004-04:00

I don't care that rain is predicted for later today.

No one, and I mean no one who lives in a house on my court or in a house that touches my backyard, needs to weed eat before 7 am.

No one.

He Delights in Me

2008-05-30T09:54:00.003-04:00

This morning I was journaling about how the enemy will use any means to distract us from focusing on God – busyness, stress, headaches, illness, birthday disappointments, tiredness, old sin patterns (you get that my list could go on and on). I opened my study; and of course, it’s all about how the enemy uses our minds as a battlefield and winning the spiritual war. God’s so funny and so good. He knows how to get his point across. And boy, He has his timing down.

My friend Kelly is embarking on a wonderful time with the Lord. She's feeling his leading and following. Unfortunately for her, she's talking about the area she's digging into with me, so I keep sending her scripture references. It's kinda like I assigned myself as a reference assistant. Only, I'm pretty sure didn't ask for any help. God bless her for listening and smiling as I babble.

So I found another scripture for her this morning, or perhaps as I think about it more, it's for me and my struggle to keep the enemy out of my thoughts.

He brought me out into a spacious place;
He rescued me because he delighted in me. Psalm 18:38

I think realizing that “God delights in us” is just so huge. He doesn’t just love us, like us, or put up with our pitiful sinful selves that He has to save. He absolutely delights in us. I’m so glad.

I also like that He brings us into a spacious place. We’re not cramped, bound, pushed into the corners of our sins where we can’t ever see a way out. He brings us to his spacious kingdom.

Oh, good stuff. Good stuff indeed.

Something New Every Day

2008-05-30T08:28:00.001-04:00

If I could only find time to type all the posts I write in my head...all day long. Then again, it's probably better that I can't do that.

My husband has spent last weekend looking at me blankly and saying, "Well, yeah, didn't you already know that."

I keep thinking I'm coming up with these mind-blowing, life altering explanations of life; and obviously, Hon thinks I belong on the short bus. (No offense meant to anyone who ever had to ride the short bus, but you know what I mean. My elevator's stuck in the basement; I'm a few bricks short of a load; or as Beth Moore loves to say, "I'm as blonde as I pay to be."

The simple things in life seem so much bigger to me lately.

And then there are the other little things in life that I'm still discovering...

I pointed out to Hon on the ride home from church that I had noticed that you can drive in the HOV lane if it's not rush hours.

He finally laughed out loud at me and said, "Your whole world is just opening up this weekend, isn't it?"

While I may be feeling a little blonder than usual, I'm enjoying the new perspective. Mostly.

Revelations That Are As Clear As Mud

2008-05-13T09:01:00.007-04:00

Whew! What a lot has happened in the month since I last posted. As I read over my last few posts it seemed like the events covered happened a life time ago. I had to think about which answered prayer I was talking about in this post. (We are still praising God over our new nephew and his good health.)

My small comprehension of the world has been so broadened in the last two weeks. Hopefully forever. There has been so much to think over and take in that trying to put it into even verbal words has been difficult. I know this for a fact, because I try to explain things to Hon, and he tells me to finish my thought.

All I have to offer is, "That was it."

See, I'm still making no sense. Which would explain the lack of blogging lately.

But before I continue on with the antics of my lovely children, my obsession with gardening, and the way I'm aging before my very eyes, I'll try to get a few thoughts down here.

Two weeks ago I went to a weekend spiritual retreat called "The Great Banquet." All I knew about the weekend was that I would have time with God (72 hours that is), we'd be mainly in the (very nice) basement of our church, and due to the name I figured there would be plenty of food. Any one who had been just said I should go, and that it was amazing.

To be honest, I really didn't see any need to go. I felt my relationship with God was pretty good. I'm really happy with my life. I didn't need a spiritual retreat. I felt great about things. What more could God need from me?

I was scared that God would ask more of me.

God is so, so, so very good.

The weekend was amazing, and you should definitely go the first chance you have.

It's a weekend where God will tell you the thing He most needs you to know about himself. Your weekend will be eye opening, heart wrenching, and completely heart fulfilling. It will be all about God and all about you, and it will be all about getting you and God closer together through whatever means you need that to happen.

I saw a little slice of heaven, and let me tell you - it's gonna be great!

My friends listened to me be speechless when asked about my weekend. They listened to me explain all I got out of the weekend without being able to explain much about the weekend. They looked at each other and laughed. They looked at me just like I looked at the people that invited me to the banquet. With doubt, resistance, and uncertainty

So here it is. What did I need to hear from God? He clearly called me his beloved. That I am loved by him beyond any understanding I ever had of the word love. That if I never do another thing in this world He couldn't love me any more.

It's not about what I do for him. It's all about Him loving me.

There is no guilt. My sins are always forgiven. His call to join Him in bringing the Kingdom of Heaven near is not just to point out my sins or where I'm failing. It's calling me closer to him. Drawing me near. I'm invited to watch His wondrous work here on earth. It's my choice. But He always offers me what's best for me. He may call me to try something new, but it's not to take away His blessings but to shower me with even more blessings.

I know that's as clear as mud. But the important thing is that it's clear for me. It changes the way I see things and the way I hear things. It changes my perspective about other people. I was truly transformed during those 72 hours, and it was and still is glorious. I walk a little taller, I smile a lot bigger, I love so much more. My heart is so full.

What would God say to you?

What does God know you most need to know about Himself?

Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is
born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God
is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent
His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. In this is
love, not that we loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the
expiation of our sins. Beloved, since God so loved us, we also ought to
love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another,
God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. 1 John 4:7-12

I Am SOOO Loved

2008-04-17T13:07:00.002-04:00

The kids have been sick this week. Allergy season is hitting us hard along with a lovely case of strep throat.

We all know, that when you're sick you just want your mom. You just want someone to love on you and make you feel better.

As we stood in front of the pharmacist's counter this morning Birdie leaned into me and clung on to me with one of those hugs that's really just of way of holding her up. She looked up at me with those sweet eyes and said,

"Mom, I love you. I don't want you to ever die."

As I smiled back at her and began to formulate a loving of reply; in her next breath she added,

"But what would I get?"

Bada-bing, bada-bam

Thank you, folks, I'll be here all week taking abuse from the peanut gallery.

The Beautiful Cherry Blossoms, Part 2

2008-04-11T06:00:00.001-04:00

A friend and I took our kids back downtown on Monday. Even though it was overcast and drizzly at times, you can't deny the beauty of thousands of cherry trees exploding with the promise of spring.

It was a great quote to end our day. It's a quote by Franklin Delanor Roosevelt. It's found in Room 4 of his memorial on the Tidal Basin. It is a gorgeous and emotionally moving memorial of a man who led America through some very dark hours.

Power of Prayer

2008-04-10T07:31:00.003-04:00

Answered prayer is a beautiful gift indeed. Even the prayers God doesn't answer they way we wish can be beautiful sometimes. We must remember that God's ways and timing are perfect. There are reasons and answers that we will never understand while on earth. There are times that His answer to our prayers brings us heartache and confusion. But there are times that He can take what might have seemed like a huge disappointment and turn it into a beautiful gift.

I spent a lot of time in prayer this week. I witnessed God's mighty hand.

I am blessed by a generous and loving God who has completely surrounded me with a loving, praying community. Thank you to all my friends and fellow prayer warriors.

I feel very blessed indeed.

Solving Life's Mysteries through an Episode of Oprah

2008-04-08T06:00:00.003-04:00

I watched Oprah yesterday.

I know it's a major event. Actually it was a rare event. While I love Oprah, life keeps me pretty busy most days around 4 pm.

Anywhoo, she interviewed Jamie Lee Curtis and Selma Hayak separately about completely different things. Contradictory ideas actually.

You see, Jamie was talking about shedding the layers of her life and getting down to her essential self. Being truly true and honest with herself. I have to admit I loved her. She talked of choices she made when she was younger (baring herself in Trading Spaces), and how she would never had done it if she knew then what she knows now. She spoke briefly of her marriage and family. She seemed like a woman who has grown to know herself pretty well. She had two great soap box moments. In fact, she was so totally intent on getting her idea out, I think her enthusiasm might of scared Oprah just a little.

First, she talked about how she hates false advertising. How the dream of the easy life advertisers use with all sorts of products and lifestyles is just a lie. Plastic surgery for only vanity does not make your life any better. It's still you in the mirror with the same problems, emotions, and baggage.

I am slowly learning this myself. Not about plastic surgery, but purchases in general. Before I purchase something new be it clothing, something for the house, any kind of want, I try to ask myself, "Will this purchase make my life better? Will it really make a difference in my true happiness.?" Some things do, some things don't, and I still make plenty of purchases, but there is perspective.

Later, Jamie spoke of a children's game she once represented. She had stated to the makers that she loved how in the game you could lose everything and have to start all over. However, the game makers had learned that today's mothers really didn't like the temper-tantrums that resulted from that part of the game, so the makers deleted it from the game. Jamie's point was, "What in the world is that kind of thinking doing for our children?" Making life or games easier for our children does not make life easier for them.

Exactly I say. Better for our children to have the tantrums, make the mistakes, and experience life's growth producing failures while we're beside them guiding them, than later when they've tried to move off on their own. A bad day is always better with mom and dad beside you agreeing it's a bad day and sharing insights on how to make it better.

Jamie's appearance was followed by Selma Hayak. Selma was talking of her new daughter, her fiancee, and her charity work with Unicef. Her charity work with Unicef is very honorable. I loved how she admitted that nursing is doing nothing to help her lose weight. I had the same experience. Then, she talked about her engagement.

This is where I might be a little judgmental. She says this is her relationship, and it works for she and her fiancee. Forgive me, but here's how I see it.

She talked of how they love each other so much and have such a bond they really don't feel they need an actual marital contract. Then mere moments later, she spoke of the power she holds by not marrying her child's father. By not marrying him, he always has to work a little harder to keep her. He has to be nicer and better to her. Every time they see each other it is soooo romantic. It is such an "Event." Her word choice not mine.

So which is it? Their bond is so strong. Or she has to keep a little of herself back to keep him interested?

That doesn't sound very healthy to me. In fact, as a mother of 3 children, that sounds rather tiring.

I've had more beautiful moments in my marriage than I can remember, but one of the most freeing moments came about year seven. I realized we weren't just married for the romance. We weren't going to make it to year 50, because we love each other so much. We are family. We are family for life. That moment will stand in my mind forever. The layers of trying to attract and hold on to a husband, and who I was as an individual, as a wife, as a mother fell away, and I saw us as a family. Connected through all time. Oh, there are beautiful days, and days I'd like to do corrective surgery on, romantic days and big events to get through, but they our days and that's worth more romance or any event we could ever dream up.

Dividing Perennials - Soothing the Monster

2008-04-07T07:15:00.004-04:00

I'm a greedy gardner.

I want one of everything. And then I want multiples of each variety. I want swaths of color drenching my yard. I want flowers for sun and a woodland garden that takes your breath away while offering serenity for our busy days.

And I want it all now.

Alas, this desire might take me a few years in this new garden.

I was on year three of my garden in our last house. All gardeners know how wonderful year three is. Minuscule, transplanted, divided baby plants finally thrive in year three. By year three you have finally figuring out where your plants like to be. You're beginning to see your vision of a garden fulfilled. There are swaths of color, ambitious climbers, and a riot of blooms.

Then we moved. And I heard that the new owners of the garden I sweated over, poured my heart into, relaxed in, and watered like I was feeding my children -

Well, they mowed it over.

I'm still not sure how they did that exactly with all the roses, hydrangas, azaleas, lilacs, weigelas, and well, you see what I mean.

Let's all take a moment of silence.

....

(Moaning, gnashing of teeth...moving on)

Last summer, our first summer in our new house, I can now see that I was still in mourning for a garden I no longer could care for. I was in mourning for more varieties of more plants than I could count. My MIL, who has taught me so much about gardening and shared more purple conflower seedlings than I could plant each year, was impressed. That made me proud.

This year, the gardener in me is bursting forth. Oh, I'm still trying to figure out how to make that beautiful woodland garden in the deep shade of 40 oak trees, but I have hope. The hope of spring and the rebirth of plants that slept through the winter. The hope of five shade gardening books and a stack of magazines.

I got my hands dirty this weekend. I only had three plants that I purchased last year that could be divided. How I love to divide a plant. Gently tugging each new plant away from the group. Creating many new plants as I envision them all in bloom. From 3 plants, I now have 33 plants. I was also smart enough to make my divisions big enough to bloom well this year. My greediness was soothed.

Oh, the excitement of spring gardening. The hope of what is to be. The dream stepping into reality.

I can't wait until next weekend. I'm going to my dad's, and he never takes time to divide his flowers. The greedy little flower monster in me is giggling in anticipation.

Growing Flowers in Uganda

2008-04-04T06:56:00.004-04:00

I was checking Sitemeter to see how readers end up at my blog. You know, all three of you. I got a good giggle that someone Googled, "Growing flowers in Uganda," scrolled down to the eighth entry, and clicked on my blog. (Love the alliteration in the beginning of that last sentence.)

I am here to say, "Yes, I know just a tiny amount about growing flowers in Uganda."

Well, not actually flowers.

More like flowers that are children of God - in a very real and literal sense. And I know just a very tiny amount about even that.

You see, in February I followed Compassion International's Blogging Trip to Uganda. Not that I actually went, but I can assure you I spent the length of time it would take to fly to Uganda in front of my computer reading and re-reading every detail of that trip. My family spent Valentine's Day night choosing the child we sponsor from Uganda. His name is Fred. He has 6 brothers. His best friend is his brother, and he'd like to be a pilot one day.

You know what I know about growing flowers/children in Uganda? Not much. But I do know that by sponsoring Fred through Compassion International people that do know about raising children in Uganda are now completely involved in Fred's life. I know he is fed, has medical care, goes to school, and is loved and taught by the Christian community in his village. I know Fred's sponsorship positively impacts his entire family. I know that the extra gift of $25 dollars that I sent will be used for something his family truly needs. Not wants, but needs.

Oh, and I know one more thing. I know that God softened the hearts of our little family here in the United States. I know that my children pray for a boy they've never met as if he is a close friend. As I think about it the seeds of love have been sown far and wide by our relationship with Fred and Compassion International I see large beautiful blossoms. Flowers planted by God.

Anticipating God's Voice - A Faithful Experience

2008-04-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

We started a new Bible Study this week, Priscilla Shirer's Discerning the Voice of God. I enjoyed a new teacher and the beginning of a new study. The women around me were so excited to get their hands on their new workbooks. We couldn't wait to dive into God's word and apply it to our lives.

That's one of the greatest gifts God has given me at this time and place in my life. He has surrounded me with other women hungry for the word of God. Hungry for real, live, intimate, relationships with God.

This study opens right on that note. As my friend, Kelly, said here,

One of the things she said that really struck me was "do you think that He loves you enough to die for you, but He doesn't love you enough to speak to
you?" She challenged us to anticipate that God does and will speak to
us...that He wants nothing more than to have an intimate relationship with
us....one that involves both listening to us AND speaking to us.

As I lay awake in the middle of the night that night contemplating, why exactly God wanted me to be awake yet again at O'toodarktolookattheclock, it occurred to me that anticipating hearing God's voice has a whole lot to do with faith. Anticipating God speaking to me involves my faith in that concept. That not only can I anticipate hearing God's voice in my life, I can also anticipate the goodness God has stored for me. I can have faith in His goodness.

Oh, there are some things I want to have faith in my friends.

Faith that my children will have real, intimate, loving relationships with the Lord.

Yes, Lord! I claim that one.

Faith that the love between my husband and me is provided by the Lord. Our marriage is sanctioned and created by God and will not only weather the obstacles of our lives but grow stronger and more cherished through our ups and downs.

Yes, Lord! I claim that one, too!

Faith that our relationship with our children will only deepen in love through the years. The Lord will provide the love to survive their growth and our old age. He will provide laughter and comfort with the ones I love the most.

Yes, Lord! I claim that!

After discovering all this faith I sincerely and eagerly anticipate hearing God's voice so I know my part in bringing these prayers to fruition.

Mostly today, in the light of dawn I feel comfort. Comfort in my faith. Comfort that God loves me so. Comfort that he will guide my footsteps, heartbeats, and life journey.

God is so good.

God is so good.

Washington's Cherry Trees in Full Bloom

2008-04-03T15:27:00.004-04:00

My aunt emailed me this morning and asked if the cherry trees were as beautiful in person as they are on TV.

My answer was, "Uhhh???"

So I drove downtown this afternoon to take my first gander at our nation's cherry trees in peak blossom.

Yes, they were beautiful.

The most beautiful part was that I completed the round trip adventure in 1 hour and 6 minutes.

Needless to say, I did not get out of the car.

That would explain this picture.

I'd love to take the kids back next week and actually, you know, get out of the car. But we'll see. At this point, I'm going to have to come up with a pretty good bribe to get them downtown. I wonder if the all you can eat Cici's Pizza Buffet would do the trick? It could be a lost cause, because I'm pretty sure the last 2 times we dragged them downtown with the relatives to wait as their grandparents read every written word in a Smithsonian, I promised we wouldn't go back for a very long time.

Maybe if we take the Metro and let the boys hang from the overhead bars as it starts and stops, I could get them there. However, at that point the Metro Cops might kick us off the Metro permanently, and we'd have no way home.

Oh, this trip is going to take planning, conniving, and superior mom intelligence. A few prayers from the peanut gallery would never hurt.

Morning Quiet Time

2008-03-31T11:12:00.003-04:00

Being on spring break and recovering from spring break caused me to put very little effort into my morning quiet time the last two weeks. Only to my own detriment I might add.

I found I missed my morning time with the Lord. A quick prayer to start the day just wasn't enough. I have quickly lost my center sense of peace. Oh, things didn't fall completely apart, but I knew it wasn't the relationship I've grown to cherish.

This morning had me back in my favorite chair putting my spirit back in order, and God was so faithful. You see, I can quickly fall into the worldly trap of wondering what great things I'm supposed to do with my life. Should I be volunteering more, teaching, writing, painting, etc.? The question on my heart this morning was, "What do you want me to do, Lord?"

I found this quote from Oswald Chambers during my quiet time,

All God's revelations are sealed until they are opened to us by obedience...Obey God in the thing He shows you, and instantly the next thing is opened up...God will never reveal more truth about himself until you have obeyed what you know already.

Why would God ask me to do anything new, when I'm still working on the things He's already asked me to do? The adventure in my life is trying to be faithful in my follow through - completing the task before me. There's nothing new and earth shattering to hear from God, because I'm still working where he placed me. I can also rest in the assurance that when He wants me to do something different, He'll let me know.

Thank you, Dear Lord, for your faithfulness, for your patience, for your unending love, and the grace we so desperately need but could never earn. Thank you standing before me to lead me down your path, for standing beside me to keep me on the path and out of the ditch, and for standing behind me to keep me moving. In Jesus's most holy name I praise you, Amen.

How Fast Are You?

2008-03-25T11:41:00.002-04:00

I have so many other things I should be doing, but...

I took this silly typing test instead. Obviously fishing did not improve my typing speed.

60 words

Speed test

My Mind Is Still on Vacation

2008-03-24T07:31:00.002-04:00

I want to be back beside this rushing creek. I'd love to be sitting on the stone porch listening to this rushing creek, roasting before a roaring fire after fishing for hours.

Instead, I'll be day dreaming of our spring break while I do laundry today.

I'm glad to be home and glad we had such a great family vacation.

Easy Easter Egg Clean-up

2008-03-12T07:01:00.003-04:00

Here's a little Works for Me Wednesday tip I gleaned from my dear mother-in-law.

Each year when we dye Easter Eggs she first pulls out an old vinyl tablecloth to cover our workspace. Here's is red and white checked. I bought a bright one covered in pictures of what else? Easter Eggs.

I've found that a vinyl tablecloth can be used for any art project. It's especially helpful for those messy preschool art projects.

So go ahead, get the whole family, grandparents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, mom and dad, involved in dying Easter Eggs this year. Let's see who can make the time consuming rainbow egg my husband always attempts. The whole point is having fun as a family and not worrying about dye on a table really helps that effort.

Got a Minute Alone?

2008-03-10T18:01:00.005-04:00

Do you ever feel that not only is time marching on...it's actually stomping across your face?

What extremes do you go to in an effort to slow down this express train to wrinkle-ville?

It's not a new problem for me. But lately, I just look dare I say - almost 40? I catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror and think, "Whoa, Charlie, what ran over me and my face?" Where are the days where I threw my hair in a ponytail, splashed on a little mascara, and looked fresh?

To be honest, I think those days are hiding back 15 years ago.

It's a dangerous thing to spend a minute or two alone in the bathroom with no children pounding on the door feeling this way. Just ask my eyebrows and newly formed bangs.

Last week, I thought maybe if I just tweezed the old eyebrows they'd look younger. A little arch could add a lot of lift to my sagging eyes.

Or so I thought.

That was before I did a little plucking and discovered my eyebrow hair has a design all of its own. When I plucked just the last little row on the bottom to make that arch I envisioned, I ended up with some weird boxy area.

Perpendicular angles are not a good look for eyebrows. I'm just saying.

I was scared to pluck anymore, so I just let my hair fall over that eye and hoped no one noticed. My friend L called first thing the next morning to check on my eyebrow situation.

I told her I wasn't looking in the mirror for a few days. Maybe if I didn't see it, I wouldn't think about it, and then the hairs would grow back in more quickly. Uh, yeah.

Then a few days later - after I remedied the eyebrow catastrophe somewhat - I decided maybe bangs would make me look younger. I'd been contemplating them for all of 3 or 4 days. Why wait a minute longer for a hair appointment with a professional who actually does hair for a living. I just snipped them off myself.

Why or why do I do these things?

Guess what?

Cutting bangs and pruning my eyebrows have done nothing for the condition of my aging skin.

Springing Forward

2008-03-10T10:56:00.004-04:00

I love Spring. The grass looks greener, the sky is a beautiful blue, birds are chirping...and then we throw in that whole Spring Forward time change thing. We were fine with the time change yesterday. I set my alarm clock and even got us all to Sunday School on time. Which is actually the first time that's happened...um - ever.

Day 2 of time change is a different story.

As Hon was getting dressed I sat up in bed and contemplated actually waking up and having breakfast with him or laying in bed for another 10 minutes. I checked the time. I had to stare at the clock for a good amount of time before I realized 7:27 is too late to lay in bed any longer. Actually 7:27...Fred's bus should be rolling through our neighborhood right about - NOW!

Hon was not happy.

Hon skipped breakfast.

Hon grabbed breakfast bars to munch while sitting in traffic he usually avoids.

Hon probably will not recover from missing his quiet morning time in the office today.

I, on the other hand, thought the situation provided a little laughter to start our day. Fred made it to school only 10 minutes late. We pulled into the Kiss & Ride behind another student. I knew he wouldn't be the only one late. :)

Oversleeping threw my entire morning routine off, which completely benefited our younger two children. They were at school a little earlier than normal, because I didn't do anything I normally try to do in the mornings. In fact, it's 11 am I haven't showered, had breakfast, done the dishes, or began my list for the day, but I have had time to drink my coffee and enjoy the birds on this beautiful spring morning.

Bringing the Great Depression to Life Through Our Stomachs

2008-03-07T07:44:00.003-05:00

My son's middle school has a great social studies curriculum. The teachers really get into their subject and have created many ways for the students to experience as much of what they are learning as possible. As a former social studies teacher myself, I LOVE what I hear about them.

Yesterday, Fred came home and reported that he has a project to complete about the Great Depression. We have to go shopping and cook dinner for the five of us with $4.00. Including tax. We're only allowed to eat from the $4.00. No dessert or snacks later in the evening.

Now I realize from many of the blogs I read that this is entirely possible. I think??? I know people all over the world survive on much much less. But have you met my family? Specifically our father figure. Do you know the size and metabolism of my husband, Hon? He comes home eats a pre-dinner snack, a large dinner with extra helpings, lets that settle for half and hour, probably another snack of cheese and crackers, followed by a little dessert before he snoozes. His astounding appetite is well known in our family and among close friends. Like I said; he's very tall and has a high metabolism. We do not save money on our grocery bill. I am rarely instructed to curb spending at the grocery store. When I try to he whines and thinks I'm starving him.

Fred and I were discussing this last night as I was saying good night to him in his bedroom. Hon had just climbed into bed himself. Fred restated that there would be no snacking or dessert. Then we thought of Hon. We both dissolved into tears of laughter. Immediately Fred yelled,

"Hey Dad, come here!"

"NO! I just got in bed"

"Really Dad, just come here a minute. I have to tell you something. Pleeaassee."

"Humph!" Stomp, stomp, stomp as he walks the 10 feet to our son's room. You would have thought we'd asked him to take out the trash in his underwear in a snowstorm. We simply laughed much harder.

"Dad, we have to do this project for social studies. Our family has to eat dinner for $4.00. The only food we're allowed to eat that night has to come from that $4.00. I'm thinking hot dogs. Mom thinks lots of rice. And..."

"Well, that's not going to happen."

At this point Fred and I are gasping for breath through laughter. You had to see Hon's face. He kept looking at me as if I would tell him it's not true. Finally he just started laughing himself. That kind of nervous laughter, he was laughing along with us, but it really wasn't funny to him.

"And Dad, you're not allowed to eat anything else."

"Well I'm sure you can eat stuff we already have right. Right? We'll already have food in our house." More looks to me to save him.

"No, Dad you just have to eat from the $4.00."

"What class is this for? Who's this teacher?"

"Dad, it's for a grade. We have to do it by the 25th."

"Well, you let me know what day we're doing it so I can eat a really big lunch. And maybe I'll cruise through a drive thru on the way home."

With a disgusted look Hon stomped back to bed. Fred and I dissolved in giggles. We should invite his teacher over to laugh with us. On the other hand, maybe not. I'm pretty sure Hon will insist the kids go to bed at 7:30, so he can break out his regular snacks.

Let's Dish

2008-03-06T08:41:00.006-05:00

Shannon at Rocks In My Dryer was thinking of washing her hands of her dishes earlier this week. However, after she took another look at her beautiful, but never used, fine china, she had to admit it was awfully pretty.

I love our china, that my husband picked out by the way. Who knew he'd want such a say? He insisted we pick a color we thought we would use in our home decor (blue), and he refused to buy dishes with flowers on them. We did pick this dignified Presidential pattern that must be hand washed. I love to use them on special occasions, but he groans every time he has to hand wash them.

I love, love, love my Spode Christmas China. It's the same pattern my grandmother had. My mother-in-law has diligently bought me 14 plates over the last few years. I also have various serving pieces, dessert plates, and a few cups and saucers. Every time I look at these plates I think of my grandma which fills me with love. I keep them in our plate cabinet year round and we use everyday from Thanksgiving to New Years.

Here are our well used, much scraped everyday dishes. We originally had 12; we're now down to 8. I think we only have 4 bowls left. The most interesting story about these dishes is the hike my best friend and I took to find them one day. Actually it's not even that interesting. I'd love to replace them, but they work.

However, since we only have 4 cereal bowls left in our everyday pattern, we use these well photographed snowman bowls year round. We've been doing using these since before Birdie was born, oh, 9 years ago. They're a great size and shape. I'd love to buy dark red bowls, but then I'd feel like I needed matching plates. And while these certainly don't match and aren't year round appropriate it's how we do bowls here at Casa NOT Martha Stewart.

These are the bowls my family used for spaghetti growing up. They are one of the few family heirlooms from my mom's side of the family. I never had spaghetti any other way. My mom wasn't a great cook, but she made fabulous spaghetti sauce. She gave me these dishes a few years ago. I had high hopes of my family using them, but my husband, you know the one with lots of opinions on dishes, refuses to use them. I have to admit they look tons better photographed than in person. Still I can't imagine ever getting rid of them.

Hon loves these pasta bowls. They're twice the size of the heirlooms and a lot more sturdy. Plus they're pretty and match our decor. You know how important that is when you fill them with spaghetti.

Finally, one last look at part of my tea cup collection. You're probably not surprised that my dear husband started this collection for me years ago. I'll blog about it someday, but I will say it was truly the most heartfelt present he ever gave me. A lot of love went into purchasing and choosing each of these tea cups. The tea pot in the back is from my grandma. I don't use them very often because I'm not the graceful sort that can hold a saucer and tea cup and not spill something, but we've built beautiful memories of tea parties with Birdie and her grandmothers, aunt and I.

If you haven't been totally put to sleep by a look at my hodge-podge collection of dishes, you can check out other collections at Rocks In My Dryer.

Something to Bark About

2008-03-05T06:43:00.004-05:00

Do you hear a dog barking? Do you live in Northern Virginia?

It could be our dear Wink. It's 6:30 am, and I am sure we have neighbor's that would really like to sleep. However Wink has some kind of rather large critter treed next door. Oh, he's safely behind a fence just barking and jumping, but the raccoon/oppossum is sticking to its instincts. I can't tell exactly what the animal is because it is definitely clinging to the tree on the opposite side of our yard. I do have to say it's big enough that I'm glad it's on the other side of the fence.

Since the barking isn't stopping, I suppose I should put on some boots and wade through our yard and drag Wink back inside. It poured last night and our back yard has turned into one huge puddle; which is why I haven't ventured out to get him yet. I guess the neighborly thing one be to stop his barking...at 6:30 am.

I'll probably get a better look at that critter. I'll let you know how it goes.

I never got a better look. Wink had stopped barking and the critter had escaped. I'm pretty sure it was a raccoon from the fluffiness and color of its fur. A really BIG raccoon. I'm just glad it wasn't a skunk!

Maternity Wear???

2008-03-03T12:11:00.003-05:00

I decided to pop into Old Navy this morning and check out the sales rack. I could always use a few new t-shirts or even a new sweater. As I perused their spring fashions and clearance racks I ran into a few personal difficulties. (I'm not picking on Old Navy in particular; I've seen this style issue many places.)

Can someone please explain to me why empire-waisted, tie-in-the-back or front, flowing blouses are fashionable for non-pregnant women? Equally perplexing is the fact that when I finally found a long length, slim fitting t-shirt it was marked "Maternity Wear."

???????

I understand that pregnant women do not want to look any larger than they already are by adding to their girth with a large flowing top. They'd prefer to let everyone see their growing bump at precisely it's t-shirt form fitting size. As a mother of three, I get that logic.

But making people wonder if, you're pregnant or trying to hide too much ice cream with a flowing top?

That one I don't understand.

The Master Builder

2008-02-27T08:02:00.002-05:00

Many years ago I was alone in the car driving a few hours to spend the weekend with my college sorority sisters. My husband was home with our three children, and I was free as a bird. I should of been singing as loudly as I could with the radio imagining the laughter of the weekend to come. Instead I was having one of those terrified-mother day dreams where I died in a car accident, and my children had to go on without me scarred for life.

(Please tell my I'm not the only self-centered psycho mom out there. You know you've imagined it and worse.)

In my self-induced, starring me, horror film, day dream I cried out to the Lord to protect me and my children. Surely the Lord wouldn't wish my children to be motherless. In that moment of heartfelt prayer I had one of the bigger "Aha" moments of my life.

If I were to die while my children were young, the Lord of Heaven and Earth has a much better plan for their lives than me.

(Uhhh...I think perhaps the Lord knocked a little sense into me and the drama out of me.)

In a moment, I went from a self-centered control freak Mom to realizing that God is completely in control of all aspects of my and my family's lives. If the absolutely worst thing I could imagine came true, God was still in control. Well, how about that?

As I pondered Psalm 127 this morning I remembered the large step of faith I took that day. I still remember that day as the day I gave my children back over to God and in the process began to seek and love the Lord with a more opened and greatly softened heart. I confess that my children had actually come before God in my life up to that point. That day I realized they were gifts from God, and what I had to do with them did not matter nearly as much as God's work with them. Psalm 127 says:

Unless the Lord builds the house,

its builders labor in vain.

Unless the Lord watches over the city,

the watchmen stand guard in vain.

The Lord has built my marriage and family. He is at the center of our lives. He has the blueprint and instruction manual. Once I gave up control and realized His love is the love that binds us together, our lives have been much more peaceful. There is no need to be fearful and to wait in terror for the shoe to drop. When troubles come, God is still in control. He's the master builder, and we're privileged to be a room in His mansion.

His walls are safe. His love is strong. I feel peace with God in control, and I can now sing loudly with the radio.

Twister Still Reigns

2008-02-25T08:27:00.003-05:00

I think I can call Birdie's Birthday Sleepover a full blown success. I did not micro-manage the party or drive myself crazy with planning or Googling party ideas for days. That in itself was a major achievement. The girls squealed, ate pizza, laughed, squealed, had a superb scavenger hunt (pat on the back to me for that one), played more rounds of Twister than one could imagine, squealed until my ears bled, and fell asleep earlier than I ever did at a sleepover.

Dare I say, we'd do it again. And maybe next time she can have a sleepover without a birthday, just for a sleepover???

Hold on, I think my combination of coffee and sinus medicine is producing hallucinations. I should just enjoy surviving the party and the joy of knowing that birthdays only come once a year.

Birdie Bird Turns Nine

2008-02-19T07:52:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet baby girl...and my sweet hunk of love hubby. Birdie Bird, you are truly a gift from God to us. You even arrived on your Dad's birthday. Your dad says he will be eternally 29 (only in his mind) because he gave up his birthday to you on the day you were born. We love you for so many reasons but here are 9 in honor of your 9th birthday

You made us laugh even at your birth. We named you *****, because it means happy and you make us very happy.

We love how you like to cuddle and will still wave your now long legs in the air at age 9.

We love how you would like play every sport you have ever heard mentioned. You love to spend hours outside trying out new things.

We love your imagination. You're never without a cast of characters at your beck and call.

We love to make Birdie Bird sandwiches.

We love how we hear you get out of bed and come to our room to say one more thing, even though we threaten you with all sorts of things to keep you in bed at night.

We love your determination. Although it drives us a little crazy at times, we know it will serve you well in life.

We are amazed at you love for writing.

We love your compassion and kindness for others.

May God fill your life with love and laughter and shower you with blessings all the days of your life.

For my dear love - I realize a little more each day that I didn't choose you to marry, but God chose you for me. I am blessed. I love you, admire you, and whole lot of other things you don't want written on a blog. Happy Birthday love of my life!

Best Valentine's Day Ever

2008-02-15T08:08:00.003-05:00

We had a great Valentine's Day. Or super-Awesome as BooMama said here.

I'm not sure what rock I've been hiding under for all these years, but I totally never understood or even paid much attention to the whole sponsoring a child in another country idea. I'd heard about it, but I definitely had my heart on mute. Luckily we have a gracious God, who likes to give me multiple chances to pull my head out of the sand. Hallelujah!

Last night we had a true sappy family moment at our house that I hope I always remember. It didn't even involve cards and chocolate showered over me. It was our family crowding excitedly around a computer screen to watch a few videos of Uganda here and then trying to chose a child to sponsor. Which country? Who needs it the most? How do you pick?

We now sponsor Fred. I have always called my kids Fred as a nickname so that helped us decide. He's 10 and lives with his dad and five brothers and sisters in Uganda. He has a beautiful smile and is a child of God. His picture is on our refrigerator and prayers for he and his family are in our hearts.

If you don't already sponsor a child, think about it, pray about it, look at these sweet children here. There are children in India that have been waiting 6 months for a sponsor, like the little boy on this page.

I've received more joy from this simple act than any worldly present I've ever opened.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of comfort. 2 Corinthians 1:3

For the Love of Laughter

2008-02-14T14:54:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

I was going to write something sappy and full of loving recollections, and then I read this.

You MUST, MUST, MUST go read it. Laughter and love go hand in hand in my book anyway. I laughed until my face hurt, and had to wipe away the tears of laughter to be able to finish reading.

Compassion International is in Uganda!

2008-02-13T07:55:00.007-05:00

Compassion International has sent a team of 15 Christian bloggers to Uganda for a week. If you have some time please check out their blogs. I promise your heart will be touched. Mine has been changed. You can link to the entire list of bloggers here, just scroll down a little. Sophie, aka BooMama, and Shannon, aka Rocks In My Dryer, are bloggers I read everyday. I really enjoyed Ragamuffin's videos. I checked them all out yesterday, and I am impatiently waiting for today's updates.

I'm guilty of having blinders on to the poverty in our world.

For $32 a month a child's life is completely changed. Just $32 dollars. How many ways do I blow through $32 in a month? How many ways that do not change my life or enrich it?

Think about it. Make a list about it. PRAY about it.

I know many people that contribute to diverse organizations. I know our family does. However this has touched my heart and opened my eyes to the greater world.

One of Compassion International's goals is to sponsor 500 more children. Sponsoring a child helps his/her entire family. The child receives help with education, healthcare, social skills, and Christian training. I pray they exceed their goal.

I copied these pictures from Compassions Flickr page. I really hope that's legal. :)

This Is Where I Ramble on to Nonsense - Perfectly

2008-02-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

Do you ever struggle with perfection? Or more aptly perfectionism? Anyone who knows me is probably laughing themselves silly with the thought of me struggling with perfectionism. I am the queen of "That's good enough!" "Close enough," and "Let's just move on." (Where do the commas go in that last sentence?)

Even in my tolerance of all mediocracy, and more importantly my drive to just finish as fast as possible, I occasionally get snagged by the perfectionism bug. I don't like it.

I recently said something quite inappropriate. Not in a crude way, but I was definitely unkind. When I called a friend to apologize and try to soothe my guilt she laughingly remarked, "You mean you're not perfect yet?"

God bless her.

I'm not perfect. Even when I try really, really hard. And you know what else, my family doesn't live the perfect life. I hope you know what the worst part of that is...concentrating on the imperfections. Letting the flaws in my life, relationshipsl, hair, complexion, conversations, home, timeliness, oh, enough already...

One of the greatest flaws could be letting the little things blind me from all the blessings in my life. Just because something isn't the perfect I dreamed it could be doesn't mean it's not the perfect thing for me. Waiting to live the perfect life when I'm perfect just isn't ever going to happen. There is no reason to hide out from the life I want to live.

Occasionally I need to remind myself of that little insight.

Raising Kids or Guiding Future Adults

2008-02-09T09:58:00.000-05:00

I haven't been blogging lately, and truly have nothing important to say right now. Or maybe I do have some thoughts, but I don't have them straight in my mind yet. This post could be full of weeding, so beware!

I admitted to my prayer group yesterday that I have just realized that the children I'm raising will be adults one day.

Shocking isn't it. They actually grow up and leave home one day. Then someday they'll have their own families. Amazing.

It may take me another month or two to adjust to this new mindset. I've been working so hard to be a decent mom and have good children, that I have truly never seriously considered what kind of adults I'm raising.

People, I am scared. And I mean really, really scared. Maybe this is God teaching me a little humility. Prayerfully, this is God molding me into a better mother and example.

So that's what's been brewing in my "missing the completely obvious" brain lately. How my husband and I interact, how I relate to my children, what they see me do and say completely lays the ground work for their adult lives. It's not just about making sure they go to church, getting their homework done, making good grades, being kind to others, and being good kids. There's a bigger picture out there that I was too blind to see.

Did I tell you I was scared?

The good news is that I realized this. I pretty much have the assurance of God that He'll show me what to do since He let me in on this little secret that kids grow up. He's given me a husband that laughed out loud at my epiphany. He's surrounded me with a wonderful group of praying mothers that pray me through this. Most importantly, He meets me each morning to open my eyes a little bit more to see his glory in this world.

God is good, and I'm still the clueless wonder. Life makes me laugh.

2008-02-01T14:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my dear friend Tasha!!!!

I'm so glad she had a birthday, because I was able to celebrate with her at a beautiful party. I love going to a party. Good friends, good food, cake, maybe a little bubbly. :)

Birthdays are GOOOD!!!

God places very special people in our lives at times, and Tasha has been a special order friend for me. May God bless the next ??? years with many blessings, abundant love, and laughter everyday.

My Courage and Strength Comes from the Lord

2008-01-21T07:55:00.000-05:00

I know when God puts a task in front of us or encourages us to try something new I should have no worries. God is at work - not me.

Knowing that and still not worrying are sometimes two different things. These words in Isaiah brought me much comfort this morning.

"I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, 'You are my servant';
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:9-10

In whatever you life brings today or what you see coming in the future, may you trust that you are held and strengthened by a righteous God.

Not Quite a Snow Day

2008-01-18T08:16:00.001-05:00

Our kids love the snow here, but they just can't understand actually going to school with more than an inch of snow on the ground. It's enough to put an already grumpy, hormonal pre-teen over the edge.

Maybe a few pancakes and a syrup sugar high will improve his mood until he has to trudge through the snow to the bus stop. Maybe I need the sugar high to weather his murderous glares. He keeps insisting that the school calendar has three snow days and this should be one of them. I'm not even going to try to change his mind.

I hope your family is enjoying a quiet morning at home. :)

Does Snow Make Anyone Else Think Cookies?

2008-01-17T15:07:00.000-05:00

The possible 1 inch of snow we were supposed to get has turned into a beautiful snowy day. Since The Dude has a friend coming over after school, I thought cookies were in order.

You should be semi-impressed. I'm trying to eat less sweets and breads. I made it until I placed the last spoonful of cookie dough on the baking sheet before I had a taste. I think I showed great restraint.

Several cookies later, I can assure you this is a good batch. I'm off to sit in front of a window and watch huge snow flakes make a winter wonderland. If you're in the mood for delicious cookies you can check out the recipe here.

Teaching an Old Mom New Tricks

2008-01-17T07:03:00.000-05:00

In my search to learn a little about blog design I've finally admitted that it's time to learn a little about photoshop. Why I even feel the need to understand my blog template is beyond me, but at least it's better than the addiction I had to spider solitare last year. Needless to say, I will now devote large amounts of time I will never get back adjusting the color on photographs and then deciding I like them in their original format.

This will require several cups of coffee, children that get themselves ready for school, and 5 to 6 Windows open for tutorials. I predict it will make massive differences in my photos. As seen below.

At least I'll be easy to find. You know I needed another worthwhile hobby...

A Shiny Ceramic Sink

2008-01-16T07:28:00.000-05:00

If you've ever encountered Flylady, you know a shiny sink is high on her list of priorities. I have to admit, there is a certain peace to walking into a kitchen with a clean and shiny sink...and countertops you can see. However, if you happen to have a ceramic sink that is over 10 years old, getting it to actually shine and not be covered with scratches is an impossibility...or so I thought.

I love our ceramic sink. I did not love the metal colored scratches left from every pot that ever touched it. No matter how much I scrubbed I couldn't get rid of those grey squiggly lines.

And then my mother-in-law came to visit at Thanksgiving, and asked, "Do you have any silver polish?"

Two minutes later my sink looked brand new!!!

So that's what Works For Me - try silver polish, I specifically use Wright's Silver Cream, to remove stubborn scratches from ceramic surfaces. Check out other great tips at Rocks In My Dryer.

Compassion International Trip to Uganda

2008-01-15T08:10:00.001-05:00

If you listen to Christian music stations you might have heard that Compassion International is going to Uganda in February. What you might not know is that they are taking 16 bloggers with them to record the experience.

I.am.so.excited!

I love a good post! I LOVE seeing the glory of God and his amazing works! I just know that this is going to be fun, amazing, heartbreaking, and inspiring. They leave on February 10th from Chicago and return on February 18th. I'm praying for their safety, their courage, and that their faith grows in this experience. I'm also praying that God's plan will be accomplished.

Here are the bloggers that are going (I copied this list from Anne Jackson's site). Check them out now and again during February.

Joe Carter http://www.evangelicaloutpost.com/ and http://www.frcblog.com/
David Kuo http://blog.beliefnet.com/jwalking/
Randy Elrod http://randyelrod.typepad.com/
Chris Elrod http://www.seekersolutions.typepad.com/
Carlos Whittaker http://www.ragamuffinsoul.com/
Heather Whittaker http://whittakerwoman.typepad.com/
Shannon http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/shannon/
Sophie “Boomama” http://www.boomama.net/
Anne Jackson http://www.flowerdust.net,/
Phil Ware http://blogs.heartlight.org/phil/
Doug Van Pelt http://www.hmmagazine.com/blogs/doug
Shaun Groves http://www.shaungroves.com/shlog/

Compassion Staff
Spence Smith http://spencesmith.typepad.com/spence
Brian Seay http://brianseay.wordpress.com/

Photographer
Keely Scott - http://keelymariescott.blogspot.com/

Have a fun clicking!

I Have No Title, Just Love For These Dear People

2008-01-11T07:16:00.000-05:00

I read a great book last year. It's If You Can Talk You Can Write, by Joel Saltzman, and basically he uses 190 pages and a lot of humor to expound on his title. I loved it. When you have a writing block, just imagine talking to someone and the words will come. I'm sure anyone that's ever read this blog has realized that his theory is the entire basis of my writing style. No metaphors, double meanings, or words I need to look up to spell here. I'm obviously more of a talker than a writer, and this blog is just me talking on the Internet.

I get my gift of gab from my dad. He can talk to anyone, anywhere, and within 10 minutes he'll find a way he's distant cousins with a native of Mumbai, India or the new couple from Australia. He's a great storyteller. I remember nights around the dinner table, laughing until we cried as he told stories about his childhood, his years in the Air Force, or a joke he'd heard at work that day. He also loves genealogy. So not only does he have his own stories, but he's spent years gathering stories about the families and area where our family has lived since the late 1700's.

Despite his wealth of stories my dad is not a writer.

But his dear wife is.

She's taken it upon herself to collect his stories. A few nights a week after dinner as they sit in their chairs petting their well-fed ~~lap warmers~~ kitties, Dad talks and Cindy types. She's not allowed to edit as she types, yet sometimes when she reads the story back to my dad he insists he did not say it that way.

And so it's true, if you can talk, you can write.

However, it does help to have a dear wife that loves you so much she wants to preserve the stories that make her laugh.

Html Tutorials???

2008-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today is Works For Me Wednesday: Backwards Edition. Everyone is seeking answers to a question they have.

I've decided I enjoy blogging. Which would explain why I get up with my husband at o'dark early, so I have time to post in the mornings. Now, I'm ready to learn a little about this Html code stuff.

I'm looking for an easy book about Html.

I don't want to design my own graphics at this point, but I would like to know how to manage a few things like putting comments in boxes with borders, changing the position of a picture, etc.

I'd love to hear about a website or book that could give me a few tutorials. Thanks for any ideas you can offer. Check out Rocks In My Dryer and share your wealth of knowledge.

Etiquette Lessons for Shy 10 Year Olds

2008-01-08T06:43:00.000-05:00

The Dude can be very shy, reserved, and cautious. Unless he's 99% sure of the outcome of his actions, he's unlikely to act. He usually needs a more boisterous friend to balance his reserved nature.

There is a boy The Dude's age, who was in his class last year, two doors down. A nice family. He's as shy as The Dude. Therefore, they never play. However, on Saturday due to a little motherly intervention, they had plans to play. So I suggested he walk two doors over and ask his friend to come over.

"But Moooommm, what do I do," he worried.

"You walk over, knock on the door, and say, 'Do you want to come over?'" I explained.

A few minutes passed, and I had not heard our front door open or close.

"Dude, are you going yet?" I asked.

"But Mom, I forgot. What am I supposed to say?" he asked.

This went on for at least 10 minutes.

"Do you want to come over? Repeat it with me." I practiced with him.

Finally, I pushed him out the front door. Ten minutes later when he and his friend had not appeared I called our neighbor. I asked if the boys were playing there, and explained our small drama. It turns out The Dude knocked on their door. The neighbor's mom answered the door and The Dude stood there, silently (probably thinking, what did mom say again?). She asked if he wanted to come inside. The Dude nodded, took off his shoes, and headed in for an afternoon of fun. Talking was completely unnecessary.

The other mom and I laughed. She worries about their future wives. The strong silent type looks good but can drive us talkative women insane. I'm glad they're still 10. I'm glad there's still time to nurture and model normal conversation. Even though he's quiet, The Dude is very observant. He makes me laugh and shake my head, and thank God for such a sweet gift.

Linking Blueberries, Riverdance, and Eat, Pray, Love

2008-01-05T10:25:00.000-05:00

I made blueberry muffins this morning.

I know, hold the horses, and pick yourself off the floor. I baked! From a box of course.

The point is, as I was gently lifting the smoking hot muffins out of the pan, my daughter was beside me doing the I-can't-wait-to-eat-a-muffin-dance. It looked a lot like the chimps doing Riverdance to me.

As she danced about in excitement and impatience she said, "Mom, I want the muffin with the MOST blueberries, because blueberries are soooo good!"

And I had the opening of my post...

Because don't we all want the MOST goodness in our lives. Oh, we may go about it completely the wrong way, but what we each want is the MOST goodness. The MOST love, the MOST happiness, the MOST joy, the MOST peace. Unfortunately we sometimes confuse ourselves by thinking if we have the MOST stuff or the MOST attention, we'll have the MOST love that we desire.

We can look so many places for that inner peace and love we are hardwired to desire. Often the last place we look is to God who lives in our hearts and changes our lives. Calling us to love him, so he can fill us with a love that never ends.

I finished reading Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert the other day. While I do not claim to subscribe to all her thoughts on God and life, I found many quotes in her book worth marking such as this one.

"Imagine the universe is a great spinning engine," he said. "You want
to stay near the core of the thing - right in the hub of the wheel - not
out at the edges where all the wild whirling takes place, where you get can
(sic) frayed and crazy. The hub of calmness - that's your heart.
That's where God lives within you. So stop looking for answers in the
world. Just keep coming back to that center and you'll always find peace."

We are made in God's image, and He is a part of us. If we seek him with all our hearts we will find him...in our hearts.

"You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

Have a great weekend. Enjoy all the goodness that God provides in your life.

Where Christmas Never Ends

2008-01-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it finally arrived. My Christmas spirit showed up around 2 o'clock yesterday. Honestly, I'm just glad I got a chance to feel it all this year. As you might guess, I wasn't quite filled with the right spirit this year. I'm usually known as Mrs. Santa Claus around our house. However, no matter how much prayed and tried this year, I was the crankiest I've ever been at Christmas. I certainly didn't enjoy myself. My poor family.

At least I thoroughly enjoyed the week after Christmas, I figured I try harder next year. I just regretted ruining my own favorite holiday for myself.

Then over the last few days I've had lots of nostalgic feelings. I've taken time to look at photos of past Christmases and the kids when they were little. I've really enjoyed the Christmas tree lights and the Santas on the mantle. The calendar was telling me it was time to start putting away the Christmas decorations, but I wasn't ready. I know lots of people keep their decorations up until the Epiphany, but I wanted our weekend to be free. Since I had a few hours alone today, I decided un-decorate the tree.

I had more fun un-decorating the tree than I did decorating. I had time to look at each ornament we've collected over the years. Our first married Christmas, the first pregnancy, each child's first Christmas ornament, ornaments from friends, made by the kids, the chicken I gave Fred the year he was crazy about chickens, the horrible Harry Potter ornaments all the kids loved one year, etc. The kids gladly carried all the ornaments back to the storage room. When I started to take off the lights I commented that the tree was still holding its needles really well.

The Dude begged, "Leave the lights on. Please let us keep the tree."

He'd didn't need to ask twice. I quickly re-wrapped some red ribbon around the tree and turned the lights back on. The Santas never left the mantle. It's still Christmas at our house. So what if the I got in the mood for Christmas more than a week late, my heart is singing. If I didn't enjoy Christmas before the 25th, I can enjoy it now.

Our tree is here to stay...

until it drops all its needles or smells like it will ignite in the presence of a flashlight.

And since we're still celebrating, do you think that means I can stay in my pj's all day???

How to Improve at DDR and Other Lofty Goals

2008-01-02T17:22:00.000-05:00

I've never returned to blog my thoughts on 2007, because I really haven't come to any share worthy conclusions. I also didn't have any New Year's Resolutions. I guess you could say I had a whole bunch of nothin'. Until yesterday morning that is.

At about 11:30 am yesterday, I was given my New Year's Resolution by the cute little physical therapist who pronounced my arches - flattened, my pelvis - rotated, my posture - abysmal, and my core strength - non-existent. Happy New Year to the Old Me.

All these difficiencies can cause a little thing I've come to live with known as a foot on fire or alternately numb. Random timing for either is provided by my irritated sciatic nerve. It's only been bothering me since my daughter was born...oh, let's see...almost 9 years ago. However as the raging inferno spread from my foot to my knee over Thanksgiving weekend, I thought maybe I should have it checked. (I'm sure my husband and friends who listen to me complain daily are glad I finally went.)

Yet, that is how I arrived at the diagnosis of bad posture. Which lead me to my number one New Year's Resolution - Improve My Posture. I sure hope the physical therapist has a plan for teaching me how to stand up straight, because obviously I missed it somewhere in the last 38 years. Even though I knew my posture isn't great, but I never realized where that could lead. I'm totally ready to follow her plan, because after her diagnosis I have resolutions. I have important things to accomplish in 2008, such as:

be able to walk without limping after watching a movie in a theatre
walk my kids to school without regretting it the next three days
score better than a D on my daughter's DDR
And if I'm going to stand up straight, I certainly hope to find my waist in the process.

I have lofty athletic goals people.

For now, I'm off to try some more crunches on the floor...with the dog sitting on me to add a little extra resistance. If you see anyone running into poles or if I don't turn my head to say hello, please realize how hard I am concentrating on tightening my core, holding my shoulders back, keeping my pelvis un-rotated, and walking with my brand new arch supports.

Oh, yes indeedy, 2008 is going to be a stellar year.

Ham and Pineapple Over Rice - Yum!

2008-01-02T06:59:00.000-05:00

Leftover ham. What do you do with it besides make sandwiches or stew? And if you're like me, what do you do with all that part at the end where they didn't spiral slice it? What were they thinking? It's like a bone got in the way or something.

I love left over ham. But even if you're tired of it, you'll love this recipe. It's one of my favorite recipes, because it's almost too easy to count as a recipe. Its What Works For Me.

Ham and Pineapple Over Rice

1 lb. or more Leftover Ham cut in small pieces (or ham steak)

1 Tablespoon oil

2 Tablespoons brown sugar

1 large can cubed pineapple in own juice

1 Tablespoon cornstarch

2 Tablespoons cold water

Cooked Rice

Saute ham in oil in large frying pan over medium heat until browned. Sprinkle with brown sugar. I might use more than 2 Tablespoons of brown sugar, but my sweet tooth is out of control. Stir until sugar is well dissolved. Pour pineapple and juice over ham. Stir occasionally as pineapple warms. Mix cornstarch into cold water. Pour into ham mixture and stir well until sauce thickens. Serve over rice.

Yummy!

Even my picky child will eat this. Okay, I pick the ham out and serve his rice plain, but we're all eating the same meal. :)

Check out other great tips at Shannon's Rocks In My Dryer.

Rocking New Year's Eve Plans

2007-12-31T08:04:00.000-05:00

We have enjoyed the most wonderful Christmas vacation the past few days. Our company left, I relaxed, and we've done a whole lot of nothing. And I mean nothing. I haven't made anyone pick up any toys. I haven't worried about picking anything up. We're still eating left-overs. And honestly, yesterday, I think my back was a little sore, because I had not gotten out of the recliner all day.

Oh, it has been a lovely vacation.

I realized as I began to blog that today is New Year's Eve. Don't worry, I have serious plans. Rocking Plans to be exact. I'll rock the recliner back as we watch a few more movies. I might possibly wander downstairs for a few rounds of Guitar Hero III. I have my title as worst player in the house to defend. I did finally score a "You Rock" last night. I should really try to rock out on my daughters DDR mat, but come on, that could make me sweat.

So, since I have our New Year's Eve plans in hand, it occurs to me that I should reflect upon 2007. That's going to require another cup of coffee....I'll be back.

Swedish Pancakes

2007-12-29T08:58:00.000-05:00

Fourteen years my husband and I received a wedding gift that I wasn't quite sure how or if I would use. It was a flat electric griddle. I had grown up with an electric griddle with high sides for making country style steak and gravy, or sausage gravy, or even spaghetti sauce in a pinch. Gravy would pour off the sides of this gift. I thought maybe we'd return it and get a better one.

And then Hon's family introduced me to Swedish pancakes. They're flat, sweet, crepe like pancakes.

Obviously my dear, well used friend has seen better days. In fact the legs have been replaced twice, and trust me you can't scrub those spots off without completely scrubbing off the non-stick surface. I've tried. Also the cord heats up just about as hot as the griddle surface these days. Kinda dangerous when you have children who love to help flip pancakes.

Since last June I've had to prop a broken leg underneath while using it. Loads of fun, I tell you!

So, one of my gifts this year was from Hon and the children. And while they gave it to me, they noted on the card it was truly a gift that will keep giving to them.

My family is especially excited that I've made Swedish pancakes twice this week. Working with a broken leg had taken it's toll on the old griddle ,and it (make that me) was only up to the job about once a month. Here's our family's treasured recipe passed down from my Father-in-law's mother. I make the whole batch standing at the kitchen counter and then we eat together. My in-laws love to plug the griddle in beside the table while everyone sits in place waiting for pancakes. If you're lucky you get one pancake a batch. Eating breakfast this way still amazes me. I'm quite the rebel in making them all before bringing them to the table.

Swedish Pancakes

1 3/4 cups of milk
3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 Tablespoons oil

Mix all ingredients together in a blender on medium. Scrape sides mix again on high. Cook on griddle. When top begins to look dry flip. Requires less time on second side. Serve with applesauce, maple syrup, or liggonberries. My kids love to roll them up and eat them plain.

The King Is Born

2007-12-28T08:16:00.000-05:00

I'm still trying to figure out how to write about our Christmas, or maybe I should skip it entirely. I really wish I had some funny moments or pictures to share, but none come to mind. In the struggle to orchestrate the best Christmas ever for 7 adults and 4 kids, I really lost my Ho, Ho, Ho. Oh, everyone had a good time. I just made myself worry entirely too much about the stress of being the hostess.

There was one perfectly wonderful hour - The Christmas Eve Candlelight service.

This was the first year we've taken our kids to the Candlelight service. It was completely packed. The joy of singing hymns loudly in a packed church on Christmas Eve still makes my heart beat faster. Of course our kids LOVED the candles. I'm still laughing over what was used to protect us from candle drips - plastic champagne glasses without the base. They worked great.

Fred, my eldest, decided he would be the absolute last person to blow out his candle. He patiently outlasted the other 12 year old holdout in the balcony above us.

I wish I could remember more of the sermon. But I won't. What I will remember is the joy of celebrating our Savior's birth. And as I think back over our families' days together, that was about the time that peace showed up in our house, and I stopped worrying about pulling off a great Christmas and started enjoying the one we had.