Aroma of Joy

Spaghetti Thinking....

2010-02-09T04:16:00.002-06:00

There are times I envy men and their compartmentalized, waffle-way of thinking. I wonder if they even know how complicated life is when you are a spaghetti-thinking woman. Here is an example:

It's 4:15 a.m., much too early to be awake...

But my stomach is growling....

I can't sleep...

Maybe I should get up now and take a nap later...

But that would mean re-doing my hair & make-up...

My hair sure is getting long....

When is my next trim?...

Haircuts sure do cost a lot these days!

Come to think of it, so do eggs....

What should I cook for dinner?

I am sooo hungry!

I really need to get to the grocery store soon....

And the gym....

Maybe after my nap!

"Saving" Time

2010-02-03T05:37:00.002-06:00

If someone happens to know where the month of January went could you please let me know....

Seriously, this "flying time" thing is out of control!

Unless I stop and think about it I can even forget what season we are in:

~ The weather is unpredictable (snow then sun then rain....)

~ I just got the Christmas decorations put away but a recent visit to the mall revealed that winter coats have already been replaced by bathing suits.

~ While I should be focused on "My Valentine" advertisers have me pondering my garden and landscaping plans.

~ Spring sports sign-ups have already begun for the kids and summer camps are filling up fast.

While it often seems like living in the moment and focusing on today is impossible (and much of the world would have us think it is irresponsible) the bible teaches that "here and now" is exactly where God has placed us and what He wants us to focus on.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

Of course this doesn't mean we shouldn't plan for the future (that WOULD be irresponsible) but not at the expense of forfeiting our peace and purpose today.

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in You." Isaiah 26:3

How many of us spend so much time focusing on what we expect and want for our future that we miss out on what we are blessed with right now? We carefully map out our lives, planning and preparing for events that may or may not ever unfold, and in doing so we neglect the precious gift of "this" moment.

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

Our calendars reveal commitments and schedules that have been set weeks or months ahead of time and literally rob us of time to rest, relax or refresh. In many ways it can feel as though we are on the fast-track to burnout, both physically & spiritually. But as we find ourselves living in a culture that values "busyness" and "scheduling" what can we do to slow the pace in order to live our lives to the fullest? Look at how Jesus answers this question:

"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." Matthew 11: 28 (The Message)

There may be "no time like the present" but I am a firm believer that "there is no present like time" and that is a gift I find myself craving more and more.

So beginning today here are 10 ways I want to be intentional about "living in the moment" and making the most of my time in 2010 (in no particular order):

1) Build boundaries around my time. Give up the idea that I can do it all and prioritize what I am called to do. Be careful of time drainers, especially the television, telephone & computer!

2) Spend time reading books with my kids. Unlike watching TV or movies, reading together invites physical contact, stimulates imagination and initiates conversation & laughter, all of which create lasting bonds and memories.

3) Be "present" in conversation. Look people in the eye, listen closely and talk less (ok, I know that will be a struggle for me but I'm gonna try, lol).

4) Plan more "lunch dates". My goal is to have lunch with (one or more) girlfriends at least once a month (more if it's in the budget). The point is to stop saying "let's get together" and just do it!!

5) Kiss my husband every evening after work and every night before I go to bed. It is so easy to take each other for granted and overlook those displays of affection that are so important in a healthy marriage!

6) Carve out DAILY quiet time with God. Many days I do but I still haven't gotten to where it's EVERY day.

7) Cook more and eat out less. Nothing brings a family together like sharing a home-cooked meal.

8) Re-incorporate family prayer time. We did this for awhile but it is definitely time to bring out the prayer journal and start lifting each other up again!

9) Reach out to others. Follow through on those "notes I meant to send", "hand-me-downs I wanted to pass on" or "meals I intended to deliver". In other words "put my good intentions into action!"

10) Build boundaries around my relationships. Being a "people pleaser" by nature nothing drains or wearies me more than trying to please the "unpleaseable". As much as I want to be loved and accepted by all I am painfully aware that I will never be able to please everyone and the harder I try the less effective I am. Unfortunately this may mean there are people in my life that I will have to "love from a distance" in order to successfully make the most of my life, fulfill my purpose and be the woman that God has called me to be.

These ideas are just a starting point and though they may not succeed in actually slowing down time, they can help me make the most of the time I have been given!

A Different Kind of Garden

2010-01-27T21:27:00.005-06:00

AHH, January in Kansas. There is nothing quite like extreme cold, bitter wind, ice under snow, snow melting into slush and then turning back to ice again.
It's times like this I envy people who live in milder climates. Don't get me wrong it's not the cold that bothers me, and I really do love the snow, but for the most part winter is just a downright ugly season!

Today the view out my kitchen window is last summer's planters filled with the dead remnants of what were once thriving flowers and plants. With the arrival of freezing temperatures the colorful view quickly became a distant memory and we were left with a brown and barren landscape.

On the other hand, I did bring some of the larger, more expensive plants indoors for the winter. The problem is, they must struggle to find the sun and I don't do a very good job remembering to water them so although they are alive, they are far from healthy.

I think its safe to say that Kansas winters are not very conducive to growth! In fact, January can be as dreary and depressing as the gray sky.

We may even discover that our hearts (blooming with love, joy and thanksgiving just a few weeks ago) have become hard, gloomy and discontented. Like the sickly plants I brought inside for the winter, our hearts are in desperate need of a good fertilizer that can sustain us until we are in a season when we can once again thrive.

But, like tropical plants in Kansas winters, how do we promote growth in difficult or uncomfortable conditions?

We start by tilling the soil of our hearts with gratitude.

We remember and remind ourselves of what God has:
blessed us with,

brought us to,

delivered us from,

promised us...

And then we cultivate that field of thankfulness by sharing His kindness and compassion with others.

When we spend time with our Creator regularly, thanking Him for all He has done, the hard soil of our heart begins to loosen. Seeds of thankfulness develop roots and begin to grow into what God created them to be. Eventually the ground softens enough that the tender shoots of new growth are able to break through the top layer and bask in the full glory of the Son!

Galatians 6:7 says "we reap what we sow" and it's only when we are sowing seeds of gratitude and praise that we can hope to reap a harvest of blessing. Eventually, if we are diligent in cultivating gratitude, we will find an abundant harvest of the "fruit of the Spirit":

Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Long suffering, Meekness,

Gentleness, Kindness, Faith and Temperance.

So where do you find yourself today?

Have you been hit by a sudden "hard frost" or "long winter" that has left you weak and hopeless like the flowers left outside?
Or are you more like the plants that were moved inside? Hanging in there, surviving but just going through the motions; doing OK but far from healthy and thriving?

Well the good news is that, unlike gardening in Kansas, we don't have to wait for a change in the weather to plant a garden of gratitude. That can be easier said than done in a culture built on personal comfort, excess and entitlement so this year I have made it my goal to teach my children how to reap a harvest of blessing that comes from cultivating gratitude.

How?...

I purchased an inexpensive weekly calendar and keep it next to the computer where each day everyone is invited to write 1 to 5 things they are grateful for. When some of the family (mainly teenagers) balked at the idea I appealed to their sense of competition and offered a prize for whoever wrote on the most days of each month (ice cream or candy should work well). It may sound like a bribe but I like to think of it as a short term reward that will have long term effects. As they try to "win" the meager prize I offer they are receiving something much greater...a grateful heart!

Personally I hope they all "win". A family ice cream night is something to be grateful for indeed!!

So in closing, here are a few of the things our family is grateful for in January 2010....

Home
Jesus is the Gate!
Memories of good times
Siblings
No school on Monday!
The people trying to help with the Haiti earthquake
Education
Our dog Maggie
My sister making my bed for me.
All the people on earth

That is just a sample of our "garden of gratitude", what does yours look like??

A Bloggers Tale...

2010-01-25T05:47:00.002-06:00

Once Upon a Time....there was a woman who wanted to start a blog.

Through the blog she could stay connected with family, make new friends, express her creativity and develop her writing skills.

Much to her delight Blogland turned out to be an encouraging place filled with lovely ladies and the woman made many new friends, both online and in person.

In the beginning, similar to a new relationship, there seemed to be no loss of ideas and topics to post on. God, family, activities, history, beliefs, travel, problem-solving.....there was so much to write about and the woman was inspired and energized by the writing!

Not only was she encouraged as a writer but by visiting the sites of other women she was able to give and receive encouragement from others.

On top of that the woman discovered how to create new designs for her blog. Playing with the look and layout became part of the fun and she even made a little profit by helping other ladies update the look of their blogs.

But then one day the woman realized blogging wasn't fun anymore. Life was busy & stressful and her blog was an added pressure and deadline in her life. Writing was no longer creative and energizing, it was forced and draining.

Besides not having time to write she also felt guilty for not visiting the blogs of her new "friends". As for creating blog designs, they became more of a business than a passion.

Finally the woman did what anyone would do when they are overwhelmed. She turned her back on her blog and went on vacation (a LONG vacation) away from Blogland. Thanks to Facebook she didn't have to completely sever her ties to the online community (and many of her friends in Blogland) but conversing on Facebook doesn't carry the same "commitment" as blogging.

Still though, when other people would talk about writing a post or someone would ask about her blog she would get that itch to write again. Every once in awhile something would happen to get her "creative juices" flowing and the woman would think about returning to Blogland.....

The question was: "did she remember how to get there? What if she couldn't think of anything to write about? And what if she got overwhelmed by the time commitment again and had to leave?"

Then she got a grip and remembered, "life is about living in the present".

The past is behind me,

tomorrow is not guaranteed,

today is what I have to work with.....

and today I am feeling the urge to connect with friends, express myself and work on my writing skills...so today I decided to blog!

When You Wish Upon a Star.....

2009-08-17T05:30:00.001-05:00

Did anyone see the Perseid Meteor shower last week?

I really wanted to see it for myself but according to internet reports it would be best viewed in a dark sky around 4am and since our suburban neighborhood is fairly well lit and I am "out like a light" by 10:30 I decided to forego the shower-show this year.

My family, however, was a little more adventurous and as I headed to bed they planted themselves on the deck in hopes of catching a glimpse of a falling meteor.

Just as I was about to doze off Quin ran into the room, and with the enthusiasm unique to a 7 yr. old boy, he told me he had not only seen a shooting star but he had made a wish upon it! His wish (also unique to 7 yr. old boys) was that he would have "super powers". I asked which super power he hoped for and he listed 3:

1) Speed

2) Moving things with his mind

3) Super strength

He went back to re-join the family and I turned the light off again to go to sleep. A few minutes later he was back and this time his little lip was quivering. Apparantly his older brother and sisters had informed him that because he had "told what his wish was" it would not come true. His hopes for super powers had been crushed by his (evil) older siblings and this "mother's heart" broke to see him so sad.

I pulled him onto the bed next to me and as we lay there in the dark I told him that he already had super powers. Because he has accepted Jesus as his saviour he now has the power of God living inside of him through the gift of the Holy Spirit. This means that he "can do ALL things through Christ"!

What better power is there than that? And unlike wishes made on a shooting star the power of the Holy Spirit just gets stronger (and shines brighter) when you tell others about it!

I was feeling really good about this lesson (and being able to put a smile back on my son's face) when suddenly I felt more than a little convicted:

--What kind of powers are important to me?--money, material possessions, status....

--Am I "wishing upon a star" (worldliness, others, self efforts...) or am I placing my hope in God alone?

--What kind of witness am I to the power of God in my life?

--Do I share with others where my help (power) comes from?

Quin has spent the last few nights looking up at the sky, just in case he sees another shooting star to wish upon but this morning, as we prayed, he "thanked God for the Holy Spirit and the power it gives him. Now that is what I call an "Aroma of Joy"!

A Shark Story!

2009-07-24T05:51:00.005-05:00

One thing I love about travelling is the different perceptions people have about places and things unfamiliar to them. For instance....

I have noticed that many people outside the south or midwest are often terrified of tornados. Of course tornados are frightening and potentially devastating but being from Kansas, my experience has been that a tornado warning is really just code for an impromptu party in the basement.

On the other hand you couldn't pay me enough to live in California because I have known since I was a child that any day now there will be a massive earthquake and the whole state will fall off into the ocean!

Thanks to TV, movies, old-wives tales, history books and the evening news everybody knows that ships sink, fires burn, boogie men exist, bad guys wear black, there are snakes on planes and sharks in the ocean.

So the other night when emergency vehicles appeared on the beach, my husband and I watched from our balcony as our girls went down to get the scoop. Nobody around us seemed to know what was happening and my husband suggested we might want to go with them ("just in case it's a dead body") but then we heard a conversation that caused us to run in their direction.

Southern Lady #1: "Do ya think it's a shark?"

Southern Lady #2: (very nonchalantly) "I don't know..... Probly."

Now I have seen Jaws and have spent more than 30 years getting to where I can swim in a swimming pool (much less a lake or the ocean) without hearing "nana nana nanananana" so why were these women walking and chatting like it's a day at the park? Why were they not running for their lives?

As we got onto the beach I heard a policeman make a comment dripping with sarcasm, "Wow, that was the biggest shark I ever saw."

Come to think of it, people in the Jaws movie were pretty non-chalant too as Roy Scheider begged them to listen.

I may be from the plains but it would seem to me that joking about sharks on a beach would be the equivalent of discussing firearms in an airport, but then again I am from Kansas and am just as likely to watch the storm clouds from the deck as to run for cover.

After further investigation it turned out that a woman had seen "something" floating in the water and called authorities who assured us there was nothing to worry about.

Hmmm.....isn't that what they said to Roy?

When a crowd gathered again today the last thing I would have expected to see was a shark washed up on the beach.

By the way, the next time there is a tornado warning in Kansas I will be in the basement!!

Our Very Own Fan Club...

2009-07-22T08:41:00.007-05:00

You would think by now I would be leery of "letting my guard down" and actually getting comfortable on vacation. After all the last time I did that we found ourselves facing a hurricane in Mexico!

Never-the-less that is exactly how I was beginning to feel on Monday. The sun was bright, my hubby and kids were playing in the sand and I was alone in the condo, enjoying my morning cup of coffee and finally writing on my long-neglected blog. Could life get better than this??

And then, as if on cue, someone knocked at the door......

It was "Building Management" and they wanted to know if we were having any water issues. "no, other than the toilet seems to run quite often." He shrugged that off and asked if they could come in and look around?

(now why exactly did I want to be ALONE in the condo?)

Immediately they started looking at the walls. From my view this is what we saw:

(many of the walls are covered in hand painted murals)

But they were looking through a different lens, specifically the lens of an InfaRed Water Detection camera. None of the pretty pictures painted on the walls impressed them at all but what was behind the wall had them very concerned! There was water and if left untreated it could turn to mold and eventually destroy the entire structure.

After discussing it among themselves for a few minutes the man turned to me and said:

"I'm sorry Ma'am but we are going to have to bring in some equipment that will impact your stay. If you can, you might look for somewhere else to move to."

"WHAT? But this is our vacation" I whined.

"You must understand that salvation of this building is our first priority. I am very sorry but we will be in touch."

Apparently the "building manager" trumps the "condo owner" in the heirarchy of decsion making and the comfort of a guest is not their main concern.

Later that afternoon we returned from the beach to find our very own "fan club" waiting for us in our "not-so-perfect" condo.

(a giant de-humidifier & 2 of the 3 very loud fans that must run continually)

It is a good thing we are a family who is no stranger to inconvenience, LOL!

All of this has made me think...... what is hiding inside our walls?

In our culture we tend to focus on outward appearance ("working-out", what we wear, the cars we drive, where we live, spending a fortune on skin-care...) but we are slowly being destroyed by what's inside; bitterness, unforgiveness, greed, lonlieness, insecurity, fear....

Fortunately we have a "building manager" who is able to detect and fix the problem before it is exessive and visible to the naked eye.

If we let Him, God will shine the "infa-red light" of His love on us and not only expose those areas that threaten to destroy us but He also promises to help us repair them. He doesn't promise it will be comfortable but our comfort is not His first priority, our salvation is.

So in the inconvenience of struggling to be heard over the fans I take comfort, once again, in the fact that God is with us and at work in our family....

Day 2 - Paradise Found....

2009-07-20T10:43:00.010-05:00

Day two of our adventure was much less eventful and might have even bordered on ordinary had we not ended up in paradise.

The first order of business was to remove the bat from the car's grill. It is situations like this that make me grateful to be married.

(Seriously there are just a few unwritten vows in marriage: if a kid gets sick I give up my plans for the day and stay home, if the school needs cookies I bake them, if there is a dead bat stuck on the car~ that would fall outside my realm of responsibility...)

Fortunately, "the removal" was done before any of us were even awake. My hubby assured us that he never actually touched the bat with his hands but used a towel to pull it off. GROSS!! We still avoided getting to close to him most of the day and have agreed not to discuss it ever again, LOL!

For the next 5 hours we passed through 3 states and drove by more churches, flea markets and fruit stands than I could count. I would love to have stopped at every one but once again it was a day of compromise and I was allowed one fruit stand.....

As we neared our destination we found a Sam's Club where we stocked up on some essentials for the week. Finding space for groceries was tricky but we worked together and got it all unloaded and into the car. I set the last gallon of milk on the bumper before returning the cart. Apparantly, instead of hearing, "it's on the bumper" my husband heard the words, "it's in the car" so needless to say we ended up a gallon short on milk but at that point we figured "no use crying over spilled milk!"

(and I thought the people that were honking at us were just being friendly!)

Eventually we found our destination

and it was everything we were hoping for.....

Unfortunately however, we may have left Kansas behind but there is no leaving Sponge-Bob behind....

A New Adventure!

2009-07-19T09:32:00.009-05:00

Hello Blog Friends,

Let me set the scene here by telling you this is my first post in a long time and I am writing to you from a Drury dining room in Jackson Mississippi on my way to the beach in Florida. No I am not running away from home, I am actually on a long-awaited (and much needed) vacation!!

My hope for this trip has been to relax and enjoy some "down-time" with my husband and 3 youngest children (a more "normal sized' family than the brood we are used to) and maybe find the time and inspiration to do a little blogging.

Together we raised enough money in a garage sale to cover the condo and gas money so we wouldn't have to stress over funds but unfortunately "relaxed" is not an easy or natural state for any of us. So Saturday night my husband was in a bit of a self induced panic as he was loading the car and he accidently locked it with the keys inside. Fortunately his wife (that would be me) had renewed the AAA membership so there was no need for bent clothes hangers and a crow bar.

Our plan was to leave early on Saturday morning but we got delayed by about 45 minutes as we launched an all out search for my husband's missing eyeglasses. I suggested we pretend it was Easter morning and we were trying to find that last elusive egg but nobody was buying it. Tense is not a strong enough word to describe the atmosphere at that point! Eventually of course we found the eyeglasses, right where he had set them down, and we piled in the car, pulled out of the driveway and began our adventure.....

It wasn't long before I remembered that there are two ways to take a road trip.

1) Head straight to your destination and do not be detoured!

2) Enjoy the ride and stop to smell the roses!

I am a #2 type of traveller but I am married to a #1 type of traveller.

Our first conflict came when we had to decide where to eat. He wanted a quick, franchise burger and I wanted a local culture experience. In the end we compromised; we went a few miles out of our way to eat at the world famous, Lambert's Cafe (home of the throwed rolls) but when the wait was too long we ended up eating burgers at the Pancake & Waffle house.

It was when we stopped for lunch that we discovered a problem with our Suburban. We were going to have it checked at a nearby Chevy dealership in Springfield, MO. but we "just happened" to be sitting in front of a man who is a parts & service manager for Porsche. He overheard us talking and he offered to check the car and was able to diagnose and fix it right there in the parking lot.

What are the odds of that? God's timing is perfect and he used a misplaced pair of glasses & an off-the-beaten-path restaurant to put us exactly where we would find help before we even knew it was needed!

Of course our drama didn't end there but continued when several hours later we ran out of gas on a remote highway in Mississippi.

On a positive note that gave the girls and I a chance to do a little reading.

Before AAA could arrive (for the second time in a 24 hour period) a kind Samaritan and his family came to our rescue. Come to find out he is a Christian and asked if he could pray with us so we formed a little circle and prayed on the side of the highway.

Our family sure does give God plenty of opportunity to show His glory in our lives! LOL!

The rest of the drive was pretty uneventful except for while driving on a pitch black Mississippi highway we heard an "extra loud" bug hit the front of the car. When we finally reached our destination we got out to investigate and found a bat lodged in the grill.

Again though this experience divided the genders. The girls and I were totally embarrassed to be driving a car with a "dead bat" grill ornament but John and Quin are now calling our car the "Batmobile"!

I can hardly wait to see what today brings....

Sampler Wisdom

2009-05-22T00:11:00.004-05:00

"Today is the first day of the rest of your life"

I remember embroidering those words on a fabric sampler when I was a young girl and I also remember being totally confused by that message. TODAY? REALLY?

Maybe I am simple-minded but I have always thought it would make much more sense to say

"Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life"

After all, today has already been partially lived, today is filled with mistakes and not nearly as productive as I anticipated it would be when I woke up. Now tomorrow, that's another story!

I just know that tomorrow would make a great beginning to the rest of my life! I will be energetic and productive; I will be kind and considerate; the path to success will show itself and I will follow it to a bright and happy future! Yes, tomorrow will be the first day of the rest of my life but today is just another day, filled with regrets and failure to live up to my own expectations. A lot like yesterday....and the day before......and the day before that....

Oh don't get me wrong there have been moments in those days when everything was going along great! The laundry was done, the family was fed, the dog had been walked, the birthday treats for school had been baked, even my hair was working for me!

But inevitably "today" carries with it an OOOPS or two........I forget to pick up my daughter from a brownie meeting, my patience wears thin and I blow up at my husband, I manage to drop and break one of my favorite dishes or I sabotage my diet with a huge bowl of ice cream; it could be the roof leaks or my car has a transmission failure....

Is this how I want the rest of my life to look? Surely I could do better than this.....or can I? Will tomorrow look any different from today? From yesterday or the day before?

The details may change regularly but the one thing all of these days (and the challenges they present) have in common is me. The same is true of tomorrow and all the days in my future. Good, bad or ugly this is my life and today is where it is being lived.

The reality is none of us will ever be perfect nor will any of us live a perfect life so instead of striving for perfection let's embrace our circumstances and stop waiting for tomorrow to begin living.
--Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Psalm 118:24

If your joy in life is missing and you are not happy with how you have been living then what better time to make some changes? Remember, "Today is where the change occurs in order for you to live a changed tomorrow!"
--Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Psalm 51:12

--I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
John 15: 11

If you lack direction and don't know where to turn, stop right now and ask for directions, otherwise you may find you are even more lost tomorrow.
--In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Finally, we need to remember that we are never promised tomorrow. Today may be all we get, in which case we had better make the most of it!
"Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." James 4:14

So today really is "The first day of the rest of my life" and that means I choose to stop waiting for tomorrow and start living today!!

Who would have known that a sampler could hold so much wisdom (and who would have guessed it would take me so long to figure it out?)

Who Asked You?

2009-04-20T05:42:00.005-05:00

I still remember where I was when I heard it; the question that has the potential to alter one's entire view of life. The question that is so simple, and yet at the same time, so difficult to get out. The question that demands an answer and determines your destiny.

"When you die will you go to heaven?"

Looking back I am certain this question, and all of the circumstances surrounding it, were carefully planned and put into action by none other than God Himself. After all it is God who draws us to Himself, He only uses people as His mouthpiece.

I had attended church regularly as a little girl, but not so much after my parent's divorce.

And then, during the year I was 12 years old, my relationship with my mother had become so filled with tension that I moved in with my Grandparents. Directly behind them lived a Pastor, his wife and 3 sons. Not surprisingly that family was everything mine wasn't, including filled with laughter, fun and faith.

One evening as the Pastor's wife and I were chatting she asked the question:

"Will you go to heaven when you die?"

"I think so." Was my uncertain reply.

"Do you want to be sure?"

(OK who doesn't want to be sure? Of course I wanted to be sure!!!)

"Then you just ask Jesus into your heart through prayer. Do you want to do that now?"

That was all there was to it. She prayed, I prayed, and Jesus took up residence in my heart. How do I know?

Because my life was never the same after that day. No, it wasn't (and still isn't) perfect, but I began to know a hope and a future that I had never known before. Reading my bible, even if I didn't understand it, filled me with excitement.

Unfortunately there were many times over the years when I chose my own paths over godly ones. In fact I have chosen to go down some very dark alleys of rebellion, for which I have endured costly consequences, and yet I know that I was never alone. God allowed me to choose the path but He never left my side and throughout it all He never stopped calling me back to Himself.

A short time later the Pastor's family moved away and I haven't seen or heard from them since. But sometimes I wonder......

--Does she have any idea that the seed she planted over 30 years ago has been tended and cared for and harvested in a big way?

--Does she know that because she was bold enough to ask the question, the man I married has come to a saving faith in Jesus?

--Does she realize that my mother has re-confirmed her faith after attending church with our family?

--Does she know that my children, the next generation, will be spending eternity in heaven?

I guess if I don't get a chance to tell her all of these things here on earth I will definitely be relating them to her in heaven! Will you be there? Do you want to know for sure? If you have already made that decision then let me ask you this:

Who asked you?

Who have you asked?

Easter Sunday was especially meaningful to my family this year as we celebrated the baptism of my two youngest children. Does life get any better than knowing that each of your children has confirmed their heavenly destiny through public confession of Jesus Christ as Lord and submitting to the cleansing of Christian Baptism?

I am so glad that "once upon a time" someone had the courage to ask....

"What's On My Mind Monday".....

2009-03-23T05:37:00.000-05:00

Since I couldn't think of anything too profound to write about today

I figured I would share a few thoughts of randomness:

This is a picture of the shower in my bedroom.

Actually it is a picture of where my shower used to be. A few weeks ago as I was enjoying a nice, steamy shower I heard a loud crash. Upon further investigation it turned out the tiles had fallen right off of the shower wall onto the floor.

Fortunately my bathtub remains unaffected (so far) and we are blessed with 3 other bathrooms that have showers in them.

To be honest this is a project my husband and I have been wanting to tackle since we moved in 6 years ago, but being the procrastinators we are we waited until the walls were literally crumbling down around us before we did anything about it, lol.

Fortunately my husband is quite the handy man and he is convinced he can do this job by himself. The rest of us aren't so sure....

Yesterday I asked Quin,

"Do you think it will take Daddy days, weeks or months to fix the shower?"

He answered with a straight face,

"Years!"

Oh heavens, I hope not!!

I do have to say though that the man I married is not only a good handyman he is also an awesome Dad to our children. Last month he took all of our daughters to the annual Daddy/Daughter dance at church and from what I hear no other Dad could (or would) dance like

my hubby!

Of course he was the only Dad dancing in tennis shoes (due to a bad case of gout).

Whatever the case I am just glad he had some shoes on because this is what his toenails look like.....

When you see a man with toenails painted like this it usually means one of two things:

1) He is a patient Father of little girls
or

2) Well I just don't even want to go there.....

On the other hand my toes were not much more attractive after I acted on the brilliant idea of giving myself a "black french manicure".

Thinking it would be a very cool and trendy look, I discovered that it only makes me look like I have ultra dirty toenails. Perhaps it would be trendier in the Fall~~ like at Halloween!

Well that is about all of the randomness I can generate for now. I guess it just goes to prove that life is not always deep and sometimes what is on my mind is just plain shallow, LOL!

The Word Is GREAT!

2009-03-16T05:30:00.000-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me how God chooses to speak to us individually.

What might be an obvious "word from God" to one person may not even make sense in our own vocabulary.

Have you ever been excited by your own personal revelation only to have those you share it with smile and nod politely?

Or after hearing a sermon that seemed specially tailored to your circumstances you discover the person sitting next to you heard a completely different message?

Personally I think this is one of the mysteries of God and a demonstration of His "Living and Active word." What else could survive the test of time and still be so revealing and relevant thousands of years after it was written? God's desire is to speak to us in a personal way, right where we are at. If only we will have ears to hear and eyes to see.

I was reminded of this over the weekend when my husband got his own "message from God" in a place he would be sure to see it.

Each year he chooses a "word for the year". It is supposed to be a word that keeps him focused on the LORD and one he can apply to his life daily. One year he chose "JOY" (an interesting choice for a guy who is often known as "grumpy"!). Needless to say that was a challenging year.

This year however his word is "GREAT". His philosophy is that he can say it when he is happy but he can also say it when he is frustrated (oh great!). I have to say that so far it has worked pretty well for him. Especially when it comes to the ups and downs of sports, which are a huge part of his life.

Then over the weekend his beloved Missouri Tigers basketball team won the Big XII conference championship so he was actually experiencing some "great joy".

And can you guess what the headline was on the next mornings Sports page?

That's right, it was "GRRREAT!"

And it didn't go unnoticed by my husband who proudly held up the paper and said, "Isn't God amazing? It's my word!"

Thank you God for giving my husband a personal message in a language he would understand, and thank you too for giving him ears to hear and eyes to see. I pray that we would always be receptive to hearing from you!

2009-03-13T06:20:00.002-05:00

I started this blogging thing just over a year ago and I am still blown away by how much it has changed my life! Of course my friends and family think I have lost my mind (not that I was all that sane to begin with, lol).

It was strange enough last year when I travelled with a woman I had never met before to a conference in North Carolina and then shared a hotel room with two women I didn't know except for what I had read on their blogs. The funny thing is that none of these women, or many of the other women at the conference, felt like strangers. In a strange way it seemed like I had known them forever. I felt like I came away from that weekend having met lots of long-lost "sisters".

Fast forward to August of last summer when I invited one of those new sisters to spend the night at my house along with a few of her children. I still giggle at my teenage son's reaction. "Dad, did you know Mom is inviting a woman she met on the internet to sleep over?" Of course Dad didn't try to tell me "NO" but he did look just a little concerned about the whole thing.

Early in January she came back to visit and support me after my Dad died. By then she was no longer a stranger and everyone was excited to see our "family friend".

So when a "family friend" says, "Hey do you want to go to Dallas? An old friend invited me to visit and offered us a place to stay!" don't you think it would be rude to say no and make her go by herself?

~~No, a good friend immediately searches the internet and books a trip to Dallas with you.

~~A bad friend would be one that invites you to visit and then makes other plans, leaving you with a non-refundable plane ticket and no where to stay in a strange city.

So that is how Lelia and I found ourselves headed to Texas for a weekend adventure. Of course the whole trip almost didn't happen when I took the "super scenic route" to the airport. But because Jesus was with us we made it in the nick of time!

By the end of the weekend we had shopped, rested, worshipped, prayed, eaten and laughed until we cried. We may have made the original plan but God determined our itinerary:

~~We met another "online sister" when Liz joined us for lunch and dinner.

~~We just happened to run into a celebrity at dinner.

~~We chatted on the phone with Missy who was in Dallas visiting a friend (who could forget what happened the last time we saw Missy? LOL).

~~We got to visit a well known church and hear an amazing (and timely) message on Sunday morning.

~~We deepened our friendship and encouraged one another in our faith and purpose.

~~We recieved confirmation that we believe God is calling us into ministry together.

~~We were able to pinpoint areas of our lives we need to improve (time management, organizational skills, decision making, map reading (lol)).

Looking at this list reminds me that what we planned as a "girls getaway" turned into something much bigger.

But isn't that how God operates when we trust Him with our plans?

Proverbs 16:9 says: "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps"

I know I can honestly say that I was blessed beyond measure as I let the Lord determine my steps to Dallas!

If you want to read more about our adventure click here to visit Lelia.

Save the Drama

2009-03-09T05:49:00.004-05:00

Confession Time: "I am a recovering Soap Addict"

Not the pretty, good smelling, get-you-clean kind of soap but the kind that are on every afternoon while the kids are down for naps kind of Soaps.

It started innocently enough. My grandmother was a "Young and Restless" fan and since I spent a lot of time at her house growing up I too learned all about Mr. and Mrs. Chandler, the Brooks sisters and of course Snapper (David Hasselhoff before he hit the beach on Baywatch).

In fact I will never hear the theme song for Y&R without thinking of my beloved Nana.

By high school I was hooked on "my own" soaps;

--I cried when Jenny died in that jet-ski accident on "All My Children"

--I was disgusted by Dorian and her antics on "One Life to Live"

--I celebrated when Luke and Laura finally married on "General Hospital"

(I really knew I was in trouble when I found myself wanting to pray for some of these characters, lol).

Yes, I was a soap opera junkie!

The funny thing was that all of that drama seemed to somehow rub off into my own life.

HMMM? I wonder:

Why is my husband working late?... Could he be cheating on me?

What did my mother mean by that comment?....

And is she REALLY my mother?

Is my sister plotting revenge against me for some unknown reason?....OK that is very possible but you get the picture!

Why is it that as women we are drawn to drama like a moth to a flame?

Drama is what keeps us watching.

It makes the plot interesting and keeps us from getting bored.

Drama is also contagious.

It spreads quickly and if left unchecked drama can lead to destruction;

destruction of marriages,friendships, families and eventually destruction of self.

Today not only are the same soap operas I used to watch on the air (along with a parental block option) but reality shows are all the rage. Not surprisingly there has been much in the way of negative fall-out for those who have chosen to share their lives (and drama) with the public.

Fortunately I am in a long-term remission from my soap addiction. Every now and then I catch a glimse of a character I recognize (funny how they all look just like they did 20 years ago) but I have no idea what is happening in Pine Valley, Llanview or Port Charles and honestly I don't want to know. I am a mother of 5 daughters and that is more than enough drama for me to handle. I am too busy living reality to spend time watching it on TV!

What is a Big Mac?

2009-03-04T05:45:00.002-06:00

What is a Big Mac?

My kids love to ask that question every time we go to McDonalds and I always respond with,

"Two all beef patties,

special sauce,

lettuce,

cheese,

pickles,

onions

on a sesame seed bun!"

For some reason this old jingle causes my little ones to break out in giggles and my teenagers to roll their eyes and frantically look around in embarrassment to make sure no one overheard me. I have no idea when I first memorized the detailed description of a Big Mac but for some reason it is permenantly tatooed on my brain.

Recently the thought occurred to me, "how much useless trivia are we storing in our memory banks?" We can rattle off things like advertising slogans, TV theme songs (think of The Flinstones & The Brady Bunch), stories and poems we have read or quotes from famous movies. So why is it so easy to remember the lyrics to my favorite songs and yet so hard to remember scripture?

Although I know that memorizing scripture is important for spiritual health, growth and well-being I have to be honest and admit that it is not easy or natural for me.

In fact many people might question the need for committing scripture to memory in a culture where the word of God is readily available in a variety of formats and translations. We can read the bible in book form, listen to it on CD, watch it on DVD or pull it up on the internet. A quick look at Bible Gateway gave me access to over 20 translations in English alone! We truly are a blessed people.

However it is possible that someday there may be a time we don't have access to our bibles. In such case we need to already have buried the words of the Lord deep into our hearts.

Why?.......

Because it is in those words we will find the strength to stand strong in the face of fear:

"Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident." Psalm 27:3

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Knowing God's word brings us peace in the midst of our trouble and anxiety:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God; and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4: 7-8

Having the word of God committed to our memory also allows us to fight the enemy and experience victory over sin:

"How can a young man keep his way pure: By living according to your Word. I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119: 9, 11

We may not have the opportunity to reach for our bibles as we are experiencing an attack or facing temptation but if we are prepared with the sword of the Spirit we will be armed and ready to fight back.

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any doouble-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

Another practical reason for memorizing scripture is to aid us in discerning the will of God in our lives as the Holy Spirit brings to mind words we already know:

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

In order to be effective Christ followers it is important that we are able to recall the word of the Lord in order to comfort and encourage those around us. ~Many times I have been able to offer a timely scripture to my hurting child just like I might apply a band-aid to their skinned knee.~

On the other hand knowing God's word is essential for our witness to others:

"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." 1 Peter 3:15

And that hope is the final reason we need to have scripture seared into our memory:

"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope." Psalm 130:5

Hope for today, hope for a future and best of all hope to overcome. Jesus described that hope in John 16:33:

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

I Know You Mean Well but Let Me Help You Get That Foot Out of Your Mouth....

2009-01-27T05:48:00.008-06:00

"Honey does this make me look fat?"

How is a man supposed to answer that question? It is a trap I'm sure many men have found themselves in at one time or another.

I think you can actually tell a man's "female knowledge quotient" (FKQ) by the way he answers this loaded question. FKQ does not necessarily equal "relationship experience", but knowing how to handle this question is all about how many women you have personally offended (or seen offended) by the answer.

Growing up with one brother and no sisters left my husband somewhat clueless when it came to the mind of a woman. Over the years he has been known to say things like:

"You could have a great body if you worked out" or "are you sure you want to eat that?" and I love the classic "be careful" (usually accompanied by a wink) as I am about to indulge in some calorie laden bliss.

The only reason I am not a widow today is because when he made these comments he wasn't being cruel but (in a twisted way) he believed he was truly thinking of my best interest. In fact, he claims he was giving me a compliment and providing friendly support. Hard to understand I know but I try to give him the benefeit of the doubt.

I remember Christmas of 1996 very well because I had just found out I was expecting our 5th baby. About a week before Christmas my dear husband placed a large wrapped gift under the tree for me. I was so excited to see such a big box. Ususally he doesn't even shop until Christmas Eve so I knew this had to be special.

A few days later I was shopping at Walmart and I saw a box that was similar in shape and size to the gift under the tree. But surely there was no way my dear husband would have bought his newly pregnant wife an AB Roller! Funny how when I mentioned my crazy thought to him (and how insulting it would be) the gift under the tree mysteriously disappeared.

I don't remember what I got for christmas that year but I do remember that after the baby was born and I was trying to get back in shape I bought an AB Roller for myself.

My husband may be slow but he is not stupid and I think he has finally come to the conclusion that if he keeps his mouth shut he cannot put his foot in it. I am not sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing. Now who will answer the "fat question" for me?

DISCLAIMER: (I do want to make it clear that I don't think I am really FAT but I also don't want to make a fool of myself by choosing clothes that don't fit right. Is there anything worse than thinking you look great and then seeing a picture of yourself only to realize you look ridiculous? And besides 70+ months of pregnancy has left me a little hyper-sensitive when it comes to my battle with bulges!!)

So who can I ask, "Honey does this make me look fat?"

--I could ask my little girls who don't yet know what "Fat" is and I certainly don't want to set off any eating disorders.

--I could ask my teenage daughter who is rail thin and thinks she looks fat so I am sure I must look like a double wide trailer in her eyes!

--I could ask my teenage son who has grown up with 5 sisters and has more "female knowledge" than most men twice his age (this kid is smooooth!)

Anyway, as I was packing to go on the cruise with my husband last month I came up with a great solution. I couldn't decide between 3 dresses to take for "formal night" so I tried all of them on and had my girls take my picture. Now I could see for myself whether or not I looked fat.......

Much to my surprise all 3 of them looked pretty good and since none of us could agree on which one we liked best I decided to take my two favorites.

SO there you have it, another use for your digital camera. Never again will the men in your life have to answer the dreaded "does it make me look fat" question.

Of course these pictures did make me realize a couple of other things:

1) how badly my bathroom needs a makeover.

2) I need to look for more opportunities to dress up (perhaps more vacations????)

The "Celebrity House Warming Party"....

2009-01-20T05:53:00.005-06:00

Now where was I???

Oh yes, my daughter was having a party......

After moving in to her new place she and her roomies had spent weeks preparing the house and deciding who to invite. Now the "big night" had finally arrived.

Lauren (left) has known Andrea (right) since 2nd grade. Nathan is a friend of both of them! Can somebody cue the Three's Company theme song???

Unfortunately I had spent the better part of that day battling a headache and upset stomach. By 8:30 I was feeling better but by then I was tired, weak and ready for a good night's rest. I was in my jammies and ready to read myself to sleep. You know one of the advantages of age is that you are no longer expected to "Dance the Night Away" just because it's the weekend.

Of course no one has told my daughter that. She was calling every hour to see if I was well enough to come and make an appearance. Finally I was so riddled with guilt that I couldn't take it any longer.

But before we could go we had to come up with costumes because this was a celebrity look alike party! Who could we be? We enlisted the help of our (at home on a Saturday night because she is grounded) 16 yr. old daughter and this is what she came up with..........

In case you don't immediately recognize us let me give you another hint......

Still don't know?

It's the Kardashian's and Bruce Jenner of course!! (Actually the only thing about me that resembles Kris Kardashian is my initials, KK)

What? You've never heard of them?

Well neither had I until I had teenage girls. Just another one of those blessings you sometimes forget to count, HA!

Seriously, why would I need reality TV?....

---Here I am, barely recovered from the stomach flu and dressed as some woman I have never heard of, with a husband who is waaay too excited about being Bruce Jenner!

Oh, and did I mention that we were twice as old as anyone else at that party? One girl was wearing a tiara so I asked if she was Princess Diana. She gave me a blank look and said, "she must have been before my time". I felt a little better when she told me she was Audrey Hepburn and I could say, "she was before my time!"

Finally, after an hour of being introduced to my daughter's new friends and reconnecting with the ones I remember from her middle school years, my husband and I had enough of being the only "Mr. and Mrs." at the party. It was kind of like when you take your baby out and people gawk over it for awhile but eventually lose interest and move on --- the novelty of the "old people" had worn off.

By 10:30, when I was finally back in my jammies and turning out the lights, I found myself thanking God for giving me such a special relationship with this beautiful woman who has turned out to be not only my daughter but also my friend!

Blue Mood....

2009-01-19T05:27:00.002-06:00

As you can see I finally got around to changing my blog design.

I know a lot of you (including my Mom) said you liked the green but for some reason I just wasn't feeling it. Besides, Christmas is over and I am feeling blue....

NO, not the depressed kind of blue, the color kind of blue. I really like the feel of this design. I think it says "winter" without feeling too cold! Of course I have prepared myself for the "arctic chill" I will get from the 3 kids not pictured on the header, lol.

To tell the truth I only have one daughter who will care. My 16 yr. old girl has as little contact with me as possible right now and I think my oldest son has no idea I even have a blog. Besides I think he is a bit camera shy ever since the poor guy was totally humiliated on Christmas Eve when my husband took all of the kids to visit Santa.

JAKE: "I am almost 18 yrs. old and I am NOT going to sit on some strange man's lap!"

OK, so he has a point. But the picture would not have been the same without him. Besides, the older girls all wanted to go and majority rules.......

I just know he will thank me one day!

It is my oldest daughter who will give me grief. She swears I NEVER blog about her, which isn't true. You can see for yourself here, here and here.

Actually, this daughter gives me hope for my relationship with her 16 yr. old sister....

There were times when she was a teenager that Lauren made me so mad I dreamt I had beat her. I really believe that was God's way of keeping me from hurting her in real life.

Although we still have our ups and downs the road has leveled out quite a bit in the last year or so. I feel honored that she calls me (sometimes several times a day) to share her drama, ask advice or just to tell me she is "bored".

About a month ago Lauren moved into a rental house with a couple of friends and last weekend was the "much anticipated" housewarming party. It had a "dress like a celebrity theme" and my husband and I were on the guest list.....

WOW! I just realized that this would be a perfect "cliff hanger". Besides this post is getting awfully long and I don't want to take up your entire day. Sooooo, if you care to read about the party (and what celebrity I went as) then be sure to come back tomorrow and I will tell you more than you ever wanted to know!

My Plans vs. His Purpose....

2009-01-16T05:25:00.003-06:00

*Today I would like to share with you a small portion of the teaching lecture I delivered to my CBS class this week....
.

The bible, unlike any other book, is not just a story -It is God’s story.

It isn’t just non-fiction - It is truth in it’s purest form.

It is not just inspirational - it is where our joy is found.

It is not a self-help manual but a promise for restoration.

It covers many different time periods, locations and people. And just as God has given us the written record of these people of the past His story continues today as He is writing each one of us into that story even now.

As Thanksgiving ended and the Christmas season began I had a lot of plans for how I would spend my holiday.....

--I knew my husband and I were going on a cruise that he had won at work.

---Christmas was coming so I knew I had shopping, wrapping and cooking to do.

---I was expecting to spend a lot of time working ahead in my bible study.

---I had boxes of Christmas decorations I intended to unpack.

---And I had anticipated spending some quality time with my kids.

But as life would have it things didn’t turn out quite like I had planned. Proverbs says- “Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails” and I can honestly say that has been my experience over the last few weeks.

As for the cruise, I got seasick...

And everything else I had planned was interrupted by a 3 am. phone call the week before Christmas.

--My Dad, who was living in Maine, had been injured in an accident and would I give the hospital permission for treatment?

--Another phone call that there was nothing they could do and did I want them to remove the tube that was helping him breathe?

--A final phone call that he was gone and since he had made no final arrangements that was now up to me and my sister.

Sometimes the pages of our life story are tragic and painful. This wouldn’t have been the story I would have written for myself or my Dad but I am not the author of my own story, God is and He has promised that through my experiences and through my pain His purpose will prevail.

The question is “do I trust Him as the author of my life?" Will I relinquish my attempts to “rewrite” what God wants to speak to me and through me. Hagar and Ishmael are an example of what happens when we try to Co-author with God or write the story the way we think it should be.

It is easy to worship and praise God when our lives are going smoothly and we are successful but what about when life takes a sudden or unexpected turn? When there is an illness or job loss?
When the economy is failing or when things become difficult and are not going the way you want them to will you trust Him with the story?

When I first got the call from the hospital I remember thinking “I can’t do this” but then immediately my mind was flooded with the thought: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. Since then I have found myself doing things I never would have imagined I could do. Things like donating tissue, arranging cremation, writing an obituary, planning a memorial service and delivering a eulogy. And in all of this I can honestly say that "His abundant grace was more than enough!"

The story God is telling is one that has included all kinds of time periods, settings, characters, drama, action & sub - plots. Each and every one of us is a part of that story but in the big picture there was one beginning and there will be one ending.

"In the beginning God created the heaven’s and the earth” Genesis 1:1

and someday

“the heaven’s will disappear with a roar, the elements will be destroyed by fire and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.”

One day God will write the final chapter of our life stories. So let me ask you…..

--What are the things you will be leaving behind and who will you leave them to?

--How will you be remembered?

--Will your legacy be one of sadness and regret or will it be one of faith & hope?

These decisions are not ours to make after we die but instead they depend on how we live our lives now. God never promised it would be easy, in fact Jesus himself said “in this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world.” And what exactly does that mean? It means that through Jesus God has already written the end to our story and we can trust Him with all of the details in between.

WFW~~Psalm 119

2009-01-14T05:53:00.001-06:00

One of my "prized possessions" is a large framed photograph showing the bottoms of all my children's bare feet. They are lined up, side by side, in a row with the smallest in the middle. Under the picture is a scripture from Psalm 119. The photo was taken a few years ago by one of my daughters friends who was studying photography. She added the scripture and presented it to me as a gift.

Unfortunately my picture is is too large to share on my blog but when my friend Lelia was visiting she shared with me a photo she had taken of her grandbaby Amiyah's little tootsies. She wanted to do something similar to how my picture looked. I convinced her to let me "play" with the picture and this is what I came up with........

For more inspiring scripture and photos be sure to visit Amydeanne here! Oh, and Happy Wednesday!!

Happy Monday!!

2009-01-12T06:12:00.001-06:00

AAAARRRRGGG! Something has to be done about that green in my blog design!! I really can't stand it! Thank you for the kind comments and for not letting this hideous color keep you from reading my post. At least I don't have to look at it while I type.

(fyi-that first word is supposed to be a scream of frustration but I think it might be some kind of Pirate language, lol)

I have to tell you, I was pleasantly shocked at all of the comments I got from my last post! I honestly thought no one would even be checking my blog anymore and there you were. Honestly, by the time I was done reading all of your sweet words I had tears in my eyes. Thank you my friends, what a blessing you are!

To borrow an analogy from my friend Janna, it feels like I have been on a roller-coaster ride ever since my birthday (in Mid-November) and the ride is finally slowing down enough that I can get off and collect myself. At least I hope it is slowing down. Otherwise I might have to jump off of a moving roller-coaster and I don't think that would be pretty, lol!

In my next few blog posts I am looking forward to looking back (does that make sense?) at all that has transpired since Dec. 1 (my last post).

But today I am looking forward to the appointment I have with my two youngest children. This afternoon Sophie and ~~Pablo~~ Quin are meeting with the leaders at church to discuss baptism. Sophie is 8 and has been asking to get baptised for awhile now. Quin is only 6 but probably understands more about the Christian faith than the rest of us combined. Case in point:

As we left bible study last week I was very excited when I heard Quin talking to himself in the backseat of the car.

Quin: "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.."
Me: "Wow Quin, I didn't know you could say the Lord's prayer! Do you know the whole thing? Our Father, who art in Heaven...." (then I recited the whole prayer).
Quin: "You got that from Spiderman!"

Apparently they pray in the movie Spiderman!.... who knew???

Well as my ~~cruel and sadistic~~ encouraging and motivating instructor at the gym says every week, "Have a Happy Monday!! And I will be back with more before you know it!!"

It's Been Awhile.....

2009-01-10T08:44:00.001-06:00

Here is a question for you; If I haven't blogged in over 6 weeks do I still have a place in blog world?

I suppose that would depend on why I blog in the first place. HMMM? Now that is something to ponder...

--I blog in order to stay connected with friends and family and to keep them updated on what is happening in the life of my family.

--I blog to meet new women and make new friends.

--I blog because I enjoy writing and this is a place where I can build and sharpen my writing skills.

--I blog so that I can record and remember events in my life and the lessons I am learning from them.

--I blog because, as I have often said, "one of my 'spiritual gifts' is sharing the drama from my own life in order to make others feel better about what they are dealing with!" LOL!!

So I guess with all of that said I need to assume there is still a place for me in blog world. In fact I think I have a new theme song..... "It's my blog and I'll blog if I want to.....You would blog too if it happened to you!"

Seriously though, I don't know exactly why I have avoided looking at my blog for the past few weeks. I HATE excuses but in order to understand how I can avoid "blogging breaks" in the future it would be good to know what caused this one. Here are a few reasons I have come up with along with their solutions:

1) I intensly dislike the Christmas design of my blog. The green is just "too much"!
I am working on a new design, the sooner the better....

2) My laptop became very "high maintenance"! The cable for the battery charger had to be held in place and this resulted in "one handed" typing!
Guess what my hubby got me for Christmas!! I love him!

3) The holidays distracted me! (Shopping, cooking, cleaning, wrapping, laundry...)
OVER!!!

4) I feel guilty for not getting to "pay back" visits to my blogging friends!
I promise to visit when I can....in the meantime, please don't think me rude!

5) My brain wouldn't cooperate leading to a case of "blogger's block"!
Thinking, thinking, thinking....

6) Medical issues with my husband, daughter and dog!
CURED!

7) A vacation in the middle of the holiday season!
Home again!

8) A death in the family!
More on that later.

9) Exhaustion (or laziness, depending on how you define it).
This is just part of getting old I'm afraid. (lol)

10) I have way too many children!
It's too late to do anything about that now!

I have to say it feels awfully good to finish a post (lame as it may be) and hit the "publish" button. Thanks for not giving up on me completely, I love it in blog land and I hope there will always be a place for me here!

See you all soon (I promise)....

Ordinary Gratitude!

2008-12-01T09:36:00.005-06:00

It's official, Thanksgiving is my very favorite holiday!!

You know that sadness that sometimes comes when Christmas is over? I am feeling that right now about Thanksgiving. What is not to love about this holiday?

---Everyone is focused on what it is they are thankful for....
---The leaves are still somewhat colorful and the air has finally begun to turn cold/crisp...
---Football is being played everywhere from backyards to the TV.....
---It is a 4 day weekend (at least for most)......
---There are HUGE amounts of food.....
---It is finally appropriate to play Christmas music and put up the decorations...
---It is a kickoff to shopping season & party season.

This Thanksgiving was especially good in our home. Nothing out of the ordinary happened but maybe that is the point; just being grateful for the ordinariness of our lives. From Dad's handwritten "Happy Turkey Day" on the message board in the kitchen, to the unexpected attendance of my 91 yr. old Grandmother, it was a day of special moments being lived out and memories being made.

One tradition we have at our house is a "Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal". Anyone who shows up is welcome to write in the journal and we have had lots of friends and family share with us over the years. My heart is especially humbled at the words of my children as they have written over and over again how thankful they are for their family. What a gift that is to a Mom!!

I think the best part of Thanksgiving for me is that it is a barometer of our hearts. The one time we intentionally think about how blessed we are and we aren't afraid to share that with those around us.

It's also a time we slow down to focus on Jesus and what lies ahead in the celebration of His birth. The challenge is to keep that same spirit over the next few weeks as the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season attempts to take over and distract us from the true meaning of the season.

Strength Training...

2008-11-24T06:00:00.001-06:00

Sorry to have been away so long again but I have been undergoing some "strength training" in different areas of my life.

Some of it I have brought on myself and some of it I haven't. Either way it has been a tough few weeks and at times I feel like a boxer in the ring, not sure where the next blow is going to come from.

Much of my "strength training" has occurred at the obvious place - The Gym. I have continued to visit "Cruella's" classes, and have even come to appreciate and actually like her very much (even if she does seem to enjoy torturing me, lol). The result of continuing to push myself is paying off and I am definitely feeling stronger! I can lift more weight, do more reps and not feel quite so sore the next day!

The other "strength training" I am undergoing is much more personal. It is strengthening as a Mom and in myself as a Christian woman. As I am stepping out to serve the Lord and teach at CBS I am watching my personal life come under attack like never before! Satan knows exactly how to push my buttons and I have definitely been feeling it recently.

I know that raising children is a challenge (and the fact that I have more children than most means I should probably expect more challenges than most) but it doesn't make it any easier when you are facing an attitude of rebellion. Rebellion that runs so deep as to say, "I want to behave this way and if you try to punish me I will hate you forever."

And as if that rebellion weren't enough to deal with, there are phone calls from the school regarding another teenager (Skipped classes, failing grades....) Of course there are the younger kids (field trip money due, programs to attend, schedules to keep...) and the older ones (do you ever stop worrying about your children???....) and even my husband (working late again, not listening, disagreements over how to handle just about everything....). Worst of all there is someone close to me who continues to disrespect me and speak derogatorily behind my back.

Yeah, Satan is pushing my buttons big-time! And, just like when my muscles are pushed to the limit by Cruella at the gym, it is at this point in my "training" that I want to give up. I want to say:

"God, I can't do it! It is too hard and it isn't worth it!"
"You can do it!"
"But it HURTS! I am not strong enough!"
"Find your strength in Me!"

So I press on and I can honestly say that whatever strength I have comes directly from the Lord: I must trust my children and their future to Him, I need to choose to let Him defend me against those who criticize and gossip behind my back, and I must not let Satan use those attacks to deter me from what God has called me to do. It hurts and it isn't easy but it does strengthen my faith.

As hard as a "strength training" class at the gym is, I love the feeling when it is over. I feel weak but I also feel strong and invigorated. It is very much the same as I go through this "strength training" with God. At times I may feel raw and vulnerable but I know that I am HIS and the more I depend on Him the stronger I feel!

I don't know why I am in this valley right now. Perhaps it is because God knows I need to have "thicker skin"; maybe I need some lessons in dealing with conflict; or it could be because I need to pass this lesson on to someone else. Whatever it is, I can be sure that there IS a good reason behind it and God will not let these lessons be wasted.

WFW~~Standing Strong....

2008-11-12T05:26:00.001-06:00

I have always been envious of those people who say they heard a personal message from God. You know "God told me....." or "I clearly heard God say...."

Since I returned home from the She Speaks Conference last June I have been praying hard about what God wants me to do now.

It is frustrating because I feel like I was obedient in going to the conference, I was very motivated by what happened there and optimistic that God was going to use me through what I learned. Oh yeah, my life was going to be radically changed!!

And yet here it is 5 months later and it seems nothing is different. I don't know what I expected but I am still the same "stay-home" wife and mom I was before I went. Yes, I am giving teaching lectures at CBS but I guess I just thought that God would open all kinds of new doors and I would sashay through them.

Then one morning about a month ago I woke up very early. I was sort of half conscious and a verse from scripture kept playing and replaying in my head:

2 Timothy 4:17...2 Timothy 4:17...2 Timothy 4:17.....

It was like I had a song "stuck in my head" and it was keeping me awake. So I grabbed a pencil and paper from next to my bed, wrote it down and then fell back to sleep and forgot all about it.

Later that afternoon I saw the paper and reached for my bible to look up 2 Timothy 4:17:

"But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the Lion's mouth."

After months of wondering if going to the conference was a mistake and praying about what God's purpose for me is, I believe I heard the voice of Jesus whisper in my ear that morning.

It was a whole new perspective on how God was using me. Two weeks later I gave my first CBS teaching lecture of the year and I can't count the times I have been able to shepherd and encourage my friends and family through knowing and applying God's word.

This may not be the way I expected God to use me but since when does God do things the way I expect Him to? I was telling God "I am ready to impact the world for You!!" And He said, "Impact those around you. Your class, friends and family." Perhaps God will enlarge my territory one day, I don't know, but I do know that if I am not faithful with little He won't entrust me with much.

So even though my kids get tired of hearing those "bible stories" and my husband thinks I am loony when I call him at work and say "Guess what, Jesus whispered in my ear this morning!" I am going to keep on proclaiming the message! And today as I speak to my CBS class I know that I won't do it alone "the Lord will stand at my side and give me strength."

Check out more Word Filled Wednesday inspiration by clicking here.

Randomness.....

2008-11-10T05:26:00.000-06:00

AAAhh! Another weekend comes to a close. The past week has once again been a crazy one! I think it is funny that as much as I look forward to the weekends I am almost relieved when Monday rolls back around!

In case there is anyone who is still reading this blog, here are some random events to relate from my recent past:

~~HELP! I've Been Shot.....
A couple of weeks ago I took "Pablo" to the pediatrician for his kindergarten immunizations (yes kindergarten started 3 months ago but that's how we roll around here). Come to find out he needed 4 shots and since they offered adult flu shots I decided I would get a shot too (just to show him it was no big deal). I am proud to say that we both were very brave and didn't cry at all when they stuck us with the needles.

Did I mention that I have never had a flu shot before? Well I don' t know what happened but by 5 o'clock that night I was in bed with what seemed to be a case of the flu (chills, headache, cough, fatigue, achy and weak muscles....).

I was feeling so bad that I was giving my husband instructions on what I wanted for my funeral. And poor little Pablo kept coming into my darkened room apologizing for making me get a shot. Luckily his flu shot hadn't affected him at all.

By the next morning I was fine. In fact I went to a class at the gym and did a weight training class. I guess I won't be having a funeral just yet after all!!

~~A "Lot" to Learn.....
This week I am scheduled to present a "teaching lecture" on Genesis 19 in my CBS class. It is the story about Lot & his family as Sodom and Gommorah is destroyed. The last teaching lecture I did was on Lot being rescued by Abram. HMMM, I am kind of wondering what God is trying to teach me through all of this Lot business? Whatever it is, I am doing my best to share those lessons with the class and my teenagers as well!

~~Cheerfulness....
Our family participated in something new this weekend as Sophie competed in a big cheer competition. It was very fun, exciting and intense. I get the feeling this can be a real "cut throat" sport! Not only did the girls look sharp and professional, many of the moms looked like cheerleaders as well. Our squad took 2nd place for 3rd graders in both cheer and dance. Which reminds me, I also learned that my daughter can really "bust a move"!

Family Support....

~~Grandma Me???
Here is something I never thought that I would say: "I can't wait to be a Grandma!"
I agreed to babysit the 3 month old son of my daughter's friend over-night on Saturday while they had a party. Oh my gosh, we had so much fun with that sweet little guy!! Even my husband was so ga-ga over this baby that he spoke the words, "It makes me want another one!" however he quickly followed that up with "but then I know what they turn into!"

I think we both agree that we are going to love being Grandparents someday. Meanwhile we have said we will watch this little guy anytime they need us to!

I am hoping that all of this exciting and intriquing information hasn't sent anyone into a coma! It truly isn't easy to live such an exotic lifestyle and find time to blog about it as well!!

Seriously though I am grateful for the "everyday" things in my life. I have learned that it is the "boring details" that really make a life livable because it is in these details that relationships are developed and strengthened and that memories are made!

I pray that you will can find the blessings in your "everyday moments" as well!!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T11:01:00.004-05:00

Here is a "little known fact" about me. I LOVE to sew! I don't get to do it much anymore (in fact I haven't seen my machine in about 4 years) but together my trusty Kenmore and I cranked out some glorious creations, until I somehow ran out of time and creativity.

More than anything I loved making Halloween costumes. In the kids' elementary school I was known as the costume lady and every year I would spend weeks making costumes for my kids, my husband, myself and anyone else who needed one.

The beauty of costumes is that they don't have to be perfect (size is approximate, they fasten with Velcro...) and they are unique. When you make it yourself you won't find anyone else dressed quite like you are. Unfortunately I learned that making costumes doesn't save money. In fact homemade ones can cost more than store bought.

I know Halloween is a Pagan holiday with all kinds of wicked associations but I can't help it, I just melt when I see all of those little children in their costumes! In our house we like to think it is an innocent day when we can all let out our "inner child" and play dress up together!!

I have put together a slideshow of some of our favorites over the years........

Another Word-Filled Wednesday.......

2008-10-29T06:33:00.002-05:00

I first memorized Philippians 4:7-8 several years ago in a scripture memory contest. I think I won a giant sized 3 Musketeers bar but the real prize was burying this verse in my heart. I can't tell you how many times I have come back to it.

I don't know about you but my life seems to be "extra anxious" these days: The election, teenagers, the economy, natural disasters, gas prices, teenagers, juggling schedules & deadlines, and did I mention teenagers (lol).... Not to mention that Satan is roaring around looking for a way to devour me and those I love.

What is a girl to do??? Thank goodness Paul has given me an answer: " be thankful, tell God all about it through prayer" and in return He promises "a peace to guard our hearts and minds." Sounds like a good deal to me!

Of course it doesn't hurt if you are able to pray for peace in a peaceful place (like at a lake retreat) but Paul is saying that God's peace is available in the chaos of every day life as well. That is really the peace that transcends all understanding and it is the peace that I need today!

Check out more WFW posts here.....

Be Wise -- Prioritize....

2008-10-27T05:53:00.000-05:00

Since I was a little girl I have been a people-pleaser. Let's face it, who doesn't want to be loved and validated, especially by those closest to us?

On the other hand, one thing I love about being over 40 is that I am so much more comfortable in my own skin, and I don't feel the need to impress or live up to other people's expectations.

That doesn't mean I don't wish for acceptance by others (I don't think that ever truly goes away) I just don't live for it. And since each individual has different expectations, values and priorities I have come to terms with the fact that I will never be able to please everyone! As soon as I do, you can be certain I am letting someone else down.

What I have learned, and am continuing to learn, is that as an adult woman (and all of the roles that includes) I have a responsibility to set my own beliefs and priorities and not compromise them to please other people. If I fail in doing that then my life will stand for nothing and my purpose will never be fulfilled. I am reminded of the country song "You've Got to Stand For Something or You'll Fall For Anything."

So what are my beliefs and priorities?

First and foremost I am building my life on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ and the Grace that He offers.

How do I do that? Through spending plenty of time studying His word and on my knees in prayer. Some might think this is a waste of time; I disagree. It is the BASIS on which my entire life is built. For me the Bible is a literal translation of how to live my life and I consider prayer the privilege of entering into a relationship with God. I don't understand why people would bother praying if they don't believe in the POWER behind it. Not only are our prayers eternal, they are also the most powerful weapon we have against the darkness of this world! God has issued us an invitation to commune with Him, how will you respond? I will respond with nothing less than complete submission to His call on my life to spread the Gospel through the ministries in which He has placed me (my marriage, motherhood, CBS, Church, Lifegroup).

Following faith, the next in my list of priorities is my family. Meaning, I am investing my time and energy into my husband and children. I believe that being a mom carries certain responsibilities. This may mean missing out on some things (parties and social events, travel opportunities...etc) but as Laura Schlesinger says, "I am my children's mother." If I don't put my children first, who will?

One of my favorite verses in scripture is: "One generation will commend your works to another, they will tell of your mighty acts." My husband and I neither one come from a "biblical" background but it is our deepest desire that our children (the next generation) will know Who God is and have a personal relationship with Him. Yes they will make mistakes, just as I have made and will continue to make mistakes, but together we will know the grace our Heavenly Father offers when we humble ourselves, ask forgiveness and submit to Him. My heart rejoices at the knowledge that my husband and 5 oldest children have confessed Christ as Lord of their lives and been baptised.

Fitness and Finances would be next on my list of priorities . I have been blessed beyond measure in both of these areas of my life but in very different ways.

Although I would love to lose 15 pounds I realize that after birthing 7 babies things could be a lot worse! However being in my mid 40's I realize it is more important than ever that I have a healthy fitness plan. For me working out relieves stress and makes me feel so much stronger and better about myself so it is a crucial part of my life plan.

Finances are definitely a "hot button" for me. Although we have never been "poor" I would not say we have ever been "financially stable" either. But again, after 7 kids and several career changes things could be a lot worse. My background is one of financial struggle and being completely dependant on my husband's income (0r lack of it) is a scary thing for me. But then I remind myself that it is God who provides. He has gotten us this far and I can trust Him!

So there it is: Faith, Family, Fitness and Finances.

The areas of priority in my life. It isn't a list for everyone and I would never want to tell someone else what their list should look like. Even my children need to develop their own lists based upon what is most important to them. Yes, I would love it if they all looked exactly like mine but most likely they won't. It doesn't make them wrong, it makes them unique.

God has made us all as individuals with different gifts and talents that He wants us to use to please Him and when it comes down to it isn't that the One we need to focus on pleasing?

Meet the Parents (parent's edition)

2008-10-24T06:22:00.000-05:00

Before I begin this post I have a confession to make....
I didn't really catch the fish in the previous post. The man of the house caught it in some kind of "fish cage" that sits in the water and we each took a turn getting our picture with it. I never even touched that fish. And in case you are concerned, they let it go right after the photo shoot! Sorry if I was deceptive, I guess I was living out my fantasy of being a "Fisher Woman"! lol

Now today it is all about the child who claims I never write about her on my blog....

One night, right before Labor Day, my oldest daughter was visiting and explaining to my husband and I how wonderful her "on again/off again" boyfriend was. Even though we thought he was selfish and controlling she was convinced it could work if she would just change a few things about herself (like eat healthier, get in shape, wear more revealing clothes, be more fun...).

As her mom I wasn't convinced and I prayed for God to intervene. Specifically I prayed that somehow God would open her eyes and show her the plan He has for her life, and that she would have the courage to pursue it before she was burdened with big consequences from an unhealthy relationship.

Well God acted fast and I didn't have to wait long. The boyfriend broke up with her the next day, saying "he spent too much money when they were together." I know you must be thinking "what a charmer!" but she was devastated! For two weeks she cried until her eyes were swollen.

Then one day, about mid September, I got an emergency phone call from her:

"Mom, I have a date with a guy named Dominic!"
"Great! With a name like Dominic I'm guessing he's Italian."
"NO, I am sure he is not but he does come from a family of 8 kids."

First thing the next morning I received another phone call:

"Mom, it was wonderful! He is sooo nice but I do think he is Italian."
"Really? Why do you think so?"
"His brothers are Tony, Vinnie and Dimitri."
"Yeah, that is pretty Italian!"

Over the past few weeks she and Dominic have become almost inseparable. The old boyfriend has done his best to get her back but she has moved on. God's timing couldn't have been more perfect! If she had still been dating the wrong guy she wouldn't have ended up with this guy, and if she hadn't met this guy she most likely would have returned to "Mr. Wrong".

So this week we had Lauren and Dom over for dinner. We ate some yummy Italian Sausage Soup (yes, I'm sure the sausage was Italian, lol) and enjoyed some great conversation.

He seems like a really nice guy and it is good to see my daughter so happy! I know from experience that there is nothing like suffering through a bad relationship to make you appreciate a good one!

Here is a picture of the two of them........

And here is a link to the recipe for the Italian Sausage Soup I made. It is my favorite kind of recipe: Cheap, Fast and Easy!!

WFW~~Pursuing Peace......

2008-10-22T05:34:00.002-05:00

My Word-Filled Wednesday post this week is a picture I took at the Lake last weekend. I chose a verse about the peace God offers because that is exactly what I have been craving recently.....

What I love about this verse is that God does the work (sanctifying).....I just have to allow Him to do it!

In an unstable world that encourages tolerance and conformity my prayer is that I will be receptive to God's sanctifying work in me. Only then will I be able to know the peace and hope that is found in Christ! I truly don't know how people get through the day (much less a lifetime) without it!

Below are a few more of my lake pictures. It really was a wonderful (and peaceful) weekend!

On the dock......

My turn to drive the Sea Doo.....

My big catch.....

Hiking for a beautiful view.....

Ready for the hot tub.....

Be sure to visit AmyDeanne's site for more WFW posts!

Checking My Tank....

2008-10-20T05:03:00.001-05:00

What I haven't been doing lately:
~ Blogging

What I have been doing lately:
~ Going to the gym regularly for strength training
~ Running Outside for cardio
~ Saving money by making my own protein shakes (peanut butter/banana, yum!)
~ Writing and delivering my first teaching lecture at CBS (Genesis 14)
~ Traveling to St. Louis for a weekend Leadership Conference
~ Climbing mountains of laundry
~ Being a chef for picky eaters
~ Disciplining my teenage son who decided to "entertain" a few friends while his parents were out of the house
~ Advising my oldest daughter in her new relationship and how to deal with the old boyfriend who now wants her back (isn't that always the way it works?)
~ Encouraging the college daughter who feels stupid because she doesn't understand her Actuary class (??)
~ Mothering my teen daughter through a broken heart
~ Helping that same daughter find a job
~ Taking the 11 yr. old to get a leg X-ray just to find it's a "deep contusion"
~ Watching soccer games (two kids), cheerleading, basketball...
~ Driving carpools
~ Spending a girls weekend at the lake with women from my small group

I heard a great speaker at the conference I went to recently in St. Louis. His name is Wayne Cordeiro and one of the things he talked about was how we need to know 2 things about ourselves:
1) who & what fills us (relaxes us, brings peace and joy, inspires us....)
2) who & what drains us (causes us stress and anxiety).

Once we know this, and then find ourselves facing the drain of a stressful situation, we need to be especially intentional about "filling" ourselves back up. We do that by being with the people, and participating in the activities, that fill us.

Unfortunately, most of the time we do just the opposite and cut back on the things that bring us pleasure in order to concentrate on the stressful situation. The danger in that is, eventually we become so drained that we have an anxiety attack or nervous breakdown.

Here are a few conclusions I came to about myself...

WHAT FILLS ME:
~Writing and doing bible study!! (blogging, journaling, lectures, devotions....)
~Reading!! (both fiction and non fiction)
~"Down time" (blocks of time with nothing scheduled)
~"Working out" and running on a regular basis!
~Snuggling one on one with my kids!
~Time alone with my husband!
~Visiting different places!
~Talking with Girlfriends!

WHAT DRAINS ME:
~Over taxed schedules!!
~Worrying about my kids
~Financial concerns (bills, college cost, large item expenses...)
~A messy or cluttered house!
~Deadlines!
~Unfinished business!
~ Friction in relationships/confrontation!
~Intense competition!

As I look back at my recent activity I can see that I have a lot of drain in my life right now (worries about my kids, an overtaxed schedule, a cluttered home, lots of competition, living under deadlines...)

Fortunately, at the same time I have been forcing myself to do some things that fill me back up (bible study, working out, going to the lake with girlfriends....).

It isn't easy because my inclination is to focus my time and energy on "fixing the drain" instead of "filling the tank" but that is a dangerous philosophy. The fact is, the drain will never be completely fixed. It may change over time and it may vary in size but it will always be there.

SO I am challenged to keep pouring into my life those things that "fill me up" and hopefully will keep me sane (or at least allow me to type on my blog a little more often, lol)!

How is your tank doing???

Where Does the Time Go?

2008-10-03T08:24:00.005-05:00

One of my Christmas traditions is to send cards to friends and family. Many of these people I haven't seen in a long time and yet every year I write the same note: "Let's get together soon!" I have honest and great intentions but most of the time another year passes before I have a chance to make good on the suggestion.

Sometimes I wonder if they even remember who I am. I begin to think, "perhaps I shouldn't bother them with more mail" or "I'm sure it would be awkward to call them up out of the blue."

That is how I have been feeling about my blog lately. I haven't written in so long! The more I think about how long it has been since I have written, the more I think "just give it up, you are not a blogger."

There have been many things I have wanted to blog about over the past couple of weeks but when I sit down to type my mind goes blank. There is definitely truth to the idea that blogging regularly is like exercise for your brain, it trains you to think in "story terms". But just like any other exercise, if you stop using your "story muscle" it loses it's strength fast.

I have felt so guilty about putting off posting that I haven't even looked at my blog. I was sure you all had gotten tired of checking in with me and moved on to "updated" sites. But this morning I finally opened my blog and read the comments, prayers and words of encouragement! I feel a bit like Tony Orlando when he saw the "Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree..." Thanks for not giving up on me or forgetting about me. I do love this community and I have missed it (meaning all of you) very much!!

So now that I have "broken my silence" I do promise to write again very soon. No, really I mean it!!! LOL As usual my life has been filled with all kinds of activity, drama, comedy, highs, lows, laughter and tears (and of course a steady flow of laundry) but I have felt God's presence in amazing ways throughout the past couple of weeks and I can't wait to engage my "story muscle" and blog all about it!!

Workout Rebellion

2008-09-24T05:30:00.002-05:00

Now that my ankle has healed and the temperatures are a bit cooler I have started running again. Unlike my friend Susan, who runs mega marathons, I run just enough for a quick workout in hopes of fitting more comfortably into my clothes.

Unfortunately all the rumors about 40 yr. old metabolism are true and I'm afraid that for me running is not enough anymore. I now have to "mix up" my exercise routine in order to trick my body into burning fat. And even worse, I have to curb my eating habits! Of course as soon as I decide that is what I am going to do I am confronted with some kind of "Death by Chocolate" dessert. Get behind me Satan (and I don't mean on my thighs, lol)!!

Anyway, I have found myself in some strength training classes at the gym recently. After my brain invented several good excuses as to why I couldn't go (battling a cold, I was already "cleaned up" and didn't want to sweat off my makeup, it was too nice of a day...) my body paid no attention and I ended up in the middle of a military-like workout nightmare!

Not that long ago I prided myself on my workout endurance. I was determined to work as hard as I could, lift as much weight as possible and do whatever it took to keep up with the instructor (let's just call her Cruella). Perhaps it is my first-born, rule-follower nature that led me to believe I didn't have a choice but to LIFT when told to "lift" or SQUAT when ordered to "squat".

Well lately I have found myself in exercise rebellion. I start out the class strong but I have been shocked to find that there are times my body does not follow Cruella's instruction. She says "JUMP" and I hear my mouth say "I don't think so." She says "GIVE ME 4 MORE!" and I mumble "No Way!"

The thing is, my brain wants to keep up but my body is shaking and uncooperative. At that point I don't care if my arms jiggle or my rear end sags, I just want out of this torture!! Besides, Cruella is on my payroll and I don't have to do what she says. Why, oh why have I signed up to suffer like this??

And then Cruella said something that I have not been able to get out of my mind. She said, "In order to get stronger, sometimes you must make yourself weak."

~To build muscles I must be willing to physically push my body to its limit.
~To love someone I must be willing to be vulnerable.
~To be a good Christian witness I must be willing to walk by faith, not by sight.
~And I certainly must humble myself before God if I want to be filled with the power of His Spirit!

HMMM! Perhaps I need to listen a lot more carefully to those people God places in my life, including trainers at the gym. And more importantly I need to be obedient to endure the trials and struggles that come my way by persevering through pain and exhaustion in order to develop and strengthen my "faith muscles".

Who would have thought I would get all of that out of an hour workout class? Thank You Lord for using my weakness to speak so strongly to me!!

Romans 7:19; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; 2 Thessalonians 1:4

CBS- More Than a Television Network!

2008-09-22T05:37:00.000-05:00

A few years ago I was playing in my monthly Bunco group when one of my girlfriends invited me to attend her bible study!

I had participated in several studies at my church but this one was not affiliated with a particular church or denomination. It was simply called CBS, short for Community Bible Study, and they met at a nearby church that allowed use of the building.

To sweeten the pot they offered a program for children. At the time, Pablo was 2 and Sophie was a 5 yr. old afternoon kindergartener. HMMM! Free childcare while I met new women and learned more about the bible? Where do I sign up? The only problem was that it was May and the new class didn't begin until September.

September finally arrived and I somehow got the kids into the right classrooms and myself into the "lecture hall" where I didn't know a soul (my girlfriend was absent for the first two weeks). As I watched the Teaching Director and Associate Teaching Director present the details of the class I thought they were so smart, brave and Godly! I would love to be like that someday!!

I also remember looking around and thinking, "Who will God bring into my life through this study? After all, He knew before the foundation of the world that I would be in this place at this time with these women..."

The structure of CBS is:
1. you read scripture
2. complete "homework questions" about the scripture reading
3. discuss the lesson in a small group
4. hear a lecture covering the material

This four-fold approach is great because it addresses every kind of learning style.

As class began that first day I couldn't wait to dig into my lesson!! And when we divided into small groups I discovered most of the women in my group were around my age but with a variety of bible knowledge represented. Throughout that year I grew to love the women in my "core group" and I made many friendships I still treasure.

About halfway through the year I was approached by the Teaching Director (I couldn't believe she knew who I was!) and asked if I would consider being a children's teacher. Looking back I understand that this was a privilege but at the time I didn't feel that way. ~ Just as I was clicking with women they wanted to throw me back with the kids.~

Then the TD said perhaps I should work with the women. Now that blew my socks off and I said "YES" right away.

So two years ago I stepped into leadership by facilitating a "core group" of amazing women. By the end of that year I had accepted the role of "Prayer Chairman" even though I felt completely unworthy of that job. I figured this was God's way of stretching me and growing me in prayer. Besides it was mostly "behind the scenes" stuff. It wasn't like I had to speak in front of the class or anything.

Then one day in August of last year I got a phone call. The woman who was to be the Associate Teaching Director had to step out of leadership due to family obligations and would I consider the job?

NO! I don't want to do that job; it is HUGE and though I am growing I am still so little! I can't, I will fail!

"Not by might, nor by power but by my Spirit says the LORD Almighty," Zechariah 4:6b
NO NO NO! I want to go shopping and travel and spend my time at the gym, this would be too big of a sacrifice of my time!

"Seek first my kingdom and my righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

OK LORD, I have faith to do what you are calling me to do but I need to be sure it is you and not my own ambitions that are driving me:

"But now listen (Kelley) my servant, (Kelley) whom I have chosen. This is what the LORD says--He who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: do not be afraid, O (Kelley) my servant, (Kelley) whom I have chosen.......I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants." Isaiah 44:1-2, 3b

I am now in my second year as Associate Teaching Director (ATD). It's funny that one of the first things I had to do after accepting the position was travel in the form of an "all expenses paid" trip to Colorado Springs for training.

Pablo is in his 4th year in children's CBS and he knows more scripture and bible facts than all of my other kids combined! This is much more than "childcare", it is a phenomenal kids bible study!

No, I don't recieve a "paycheck" for what I do but I can honestly say that NOTHING else I have ever done (outside of being a mother) has given me this kind of purpose and fulfillment. This year my mom has been able to be a part of the class and I am thrilled that she joins me every Wednesday morning to grow in God's word with 150 other women. God has indeed blessed me!!

To learn more about CBS or to find a class in your area click h er e (and be sure to let me know if you do!!).

Exploring Garden of the God's in Colorado Springs before training.

One of the best parts of training "the food!"

Rubbing elbows with Camilla Seaboldt~ Executive Director of CBS
"Graduation Certificates!"

*CBS is very much like BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) but there are some differences. My husband has begun attending BSF with two of our girls. We are blessed to live in a community that offers so many options for worship and bible study!

Playing in the Past.......

2008-09-19T05:49:00.003-05:00

Some people are just too much fun!

It truly isn't fair to the rest of us that they got all the "fun genes!" Linda at 2nd Cup is one of those people whose blog is like going to party every time I visit. Last week she introduced a site where you can "Yearbook Yourself" and see how you might have looked in the past.

Well this kind of thing is right up my alley so I have been having lots of fun "yearbooking" myself and my husband.

Remember, this is the "real" us......

But here is what my honey and I might have looked like in 1964.....

This could have been us in 1976...

And the early 80's might have found us like this.....

As I was "playing around with different "yearbook" looks I was puzzled by my 1952 picture. I thought, "Gee, that looks familiar to me".... And then it hit me, I have a picture of my Grandmother that looks very much like that!

She died when my Dad was 12 so I never knew her but I remember my Grandpa always telling me how much I look like her. I have always wished I could have known more about her but all I know is that she died young (under 40) of breast cancer. She had 3 sons and it was very hard on all of them after she died.

I pray that somehow she knows that she now has 2 granddaughters, 3 great-grandsons, 7 great-granddaughters and that one of them is named after her.

So here is the picture of how I might have looked in 1952 alongside the picture of my Grandmother Cecelia. It may not be an exact match but I can finally see the resemblance my Grandpa told me about!

If you enjoy this kind of fun then I encourage you to click here and Yearbook yourself too! Let me know if you do, I would love to check out how you might have looked in the past!

What Would Dorothy Have Done?

2008-09-15T05:37:00.002-05:00

It seems that Miss Lilly has been invited to Homecoming and for the past week she has bribed, begged and harassed me about going dress shopping.

Finally I ran out of excuses and took her to the mall on Friday after school.

Believe it or not we hit pay dirt in the first store we tried. She found a dress that was exactly what she wanted; short, purple with rhinestones on the straps and approved of by Mom. It really looked beautiful on her but in order to make sure there wasn't an "even better dress" out there we walked down the mall to look in one more store.

As I sat in the dressing room my husband called my cell phone to tell me we were under a tornado warning and his buddy the storm chaser said it seemed to be "the real thing!" About that time they announced over the Department Store loud speaker, "The city has just issued a tornado warning, please take shelter immediately or exit the building."

As you can imagine panic ensued, at least for my daughter. She began wailing, "I need to go back and get that dress!!"

The other customers were hurriedly walking toward the exits but we made a beeline back to store #1. Even if it meant being wiped out in a tornado there was no way I was going to take a chance we would ever find another dress that would be acceptable to my "particular" daughter.

As we walked the length of the mall it struck me as a really an odd scene. You could hear the announcement repeating the instructions to seek shelter or evacuate, and yet the guy at the spa kiosk was continuing to hand out samples & people were still waiting in the smoothie line. Maybe our quest for the dress wasn't so absurd after all!

We finally reached the store where the dress was being held and apparently they had not heard the announcement. Neither the clerk nor the other customers knew anything about a tornado warning.

I made Lilly stop at a table on the way out of the store because they were handing out $10.00 cash coupons for every $50.00 you spent. When the woman at the table tried to get me to stay and shop some more (in order to earn another coupon) I had to tell her "As much as I would love to there is a tornado warning and I must get home to my children. Priorities you know?"

With dress (and coupon) in hand Lilly and I ran across the parking lot and jumped in the car. By then the sirens were blaring and the rain was pounding. Traffic was heavy, as it was rush hour anyway and everyone just wanted to get home!

Finally we pulled into the driveway and a short time later my husband arrived home. Sirens continued to go off for about another half hour as we all watched the rain and clouds shift in the sky. By then we knew the tornado threat was over and we were relieved to have everyone safe and together!

For the rest of the evening my husband and I played in the rain with the kids, Lilly called everyone she knew (in order to brag on her dress), and my college girl (along with her boyfriend) came into town for a visit (completely unaffected by the bad weather).

Looking back I would say Friday night was just another ordinary piece of the puzzle that makes up an extraordinary family! A simple reminder of how blessed I am!!

"Who am I, my Master God, and what is my family, that you have brought me to this place in life? But that's nothing compared to what's coming, for you've also spoken of my family far into the future, given me a glimpse into tomorrow, my Master God! What can I possibly say in the face of all this? You know me, Master God, just as I am. You've done all this not because of who I am but because of who you are—out of your very heart!—but you've let me in on it"
2 Samuel 7:18 (MSG)

What's Your "Fruit?

2008-09-12T11:09:00.010-05:00

At my CBS (Community Bible Study) class we are studying the book of Genesis. This week we discussed the Fall of Man and Eve's decision to eat of the forbidden fruit. How could she make that choice in such a perfect environment? Since it was my turn to share the weekly leadership devotion I wrote the following........

At the She Speaks conference in North Carolina one of the speakers said something that really struck home. She said, "Satan's M.O. has always been to convince you that the one thing you don't have is the one thing that will make you happy."

Advertisers are making a fortune promoting this idea. If you want to be happy you just need to look younger, be thinner, wear designer labels, change your hair color, drink the right soda... Whatever the product the message is the same, "the one thing you don't have is the one thing that will make you happy."

I still remember the first time I discovered the truth of that statement. For me it was a make-over Barbie Doll head. I was about 8 years old and I remember thinking if I could just have a “Make Over Barbie Doll head” I will never want anything again as long I live.

Not long after that I desperately wanted a sewing machine. By the time I was 12 it was my own telephone and of course at 16 I was certain that if I could just have a new car I would finally be happy. Well I did get the car and yet I still wanted more:

A boyfriend, a job, new clothes, a husband, a baby, a house, a bigger house, another baby....There was a time I actually thought “If I could just drive a minivan I will finally be the mom I long to be!

Of course when that didn’t work I had more babies and that led to the need for an SUV and a bigger house, which meant buying more “things” to fill it up. It was a never ending chase of an elusive goal.

It is a strange place to be when you discover you have everything you thought you wanted and yet you aren’t happy. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with having babies or buying homes but they can never fill a “God Shaped Hole”.

Now I may be a little slow but I did finally figure out that what I was lacking was divine direction and purpose for my life. Instead of seeking God’s truth I was listening to Satan’s lies about what I needed to be happy. Only when I took my eyes off of my own desires was I able to focus on Him and His plans for me.

And what does that include?

Well, Jeremiah 29:11 promises “He knows the plans He has for me, plans to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future.”

I don’t know the specifics of what God has in store for my future but I do know that he has promised if I “Delight myself in Him he will give me the desires of my heart.” And His word tells me “his precepts are right and give joy to my heart.”

So what about you?

What is the one thing you think you need in order to be happy?

Money, Independence, a new or improved relationship, a different job or life situation?

Whatever it is, I challenge you to give those desires to God and as you pray about them remember Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

WFW ~~Football Fever!

2008-09-10T06:03:00.002-05:00

* Thank you, thank you for your prayers and encouragement regarding my Dad, all of the kind comments have comforted me greatly !

Today I am participating in Word Filled Wednesday. I took this picture at a rainy football game last weekend. One lesson I have learned from my girls is: Cheerleaders Never Lose!!!

Actually football fever has officially taken over at our house.

Even Pablo, who insisted he was NEVER playing sports, is having second thoughts about trying football.

Personally I was never much of a football fan until I met and married my husband. Of course being the obsessive/compulsive personality I am, once I discovered the sport I became a fanatic.....

I've already admitted to being a former Fantasy Football addict. I had a successful "team" but after 3 years I couldn't take the pressure anymore. Not only was I losing sleep over games but when I did finally fall asleep I had nightmares about large men in helmets!

It wasn't easy but I finally hung up my pencil and stat-book forever. (However I still get that little thrill when I hear the "game update jingle" on the radio)! I know, I'm a sick woman!!

Just as I was in the middle of my "Fantasy Era" I discovered the fun of the NFL!

In July of 1993, one of my girlfriends and I slept in flooding rains (an inch an hour for 8 hours straight) in order to be one of the first in line for Kansas City Chiefs tickets.

Later that year, when tickets to the playoff game went on sale New Year's Morning, I sent my husband to "camp out" for tickets in the freezing temperatures (serves him right after his Fantasy team beat mine!! hahaha).

My husband and I both slept in line to get game tickets the following season, although that required hiding in the woods and making a mad dash for the line when they opened the stadium gates.

Fortunately, the year after that season tickets became available and we snatched up 2 of them.

But by 1998 we had another baby at home and I found that I was spending more time pumping milk in the stadium bathroom than in my seat watching the game so we finally decided to invest our money in a new TV instead of the NFL.

Today I am happy to report that we are no longer held in bondage by Fantasy or NFL football. We can take it or leave it which frees us up to concentrate on the REALLY important things in life!

College Football!
Go TIGERS!!

Life is more fun when you are a fan!
Who are you rooting for this year???

Be sure to check out the 160 Acre Wood for more WFW posts!!

Demolition Day!

2008-09-08T07:57:00.006-05:00

QUIN: "Who in the world would name me Quin."

ME: "Daddy and I picked that name for you."

QUIN: "Why couldn't you have just named me Pablo?"

Oh my goodness does this boy make me laugh? I have no idea where the "Pablo" comment came from but I think it is going to stick as a new nickname.

Actually his humor couldn't have come at a better time as I received word yesterday that my Dad is not doing well. Six months ago, after being hospitalized and on life support, he entered a Detox program for his alcohol and nicotine addictions. He did well for a short time but unfortunately he is smoking and drinking heavily again.

Sadly, I am not surprised but my heart does ache at the thought of what he is doing to himself. I take comfort in the fact that he does know the Lord and I believe his salvation is assured but if he continues to indulge his addictions it is only a matter of time before they end his life. Meanwhile he is miserable and he is making everyone around him miserable too.

Since he is in Maine and I am in Kansas there isn't much I can do for him physically. I can however pray and offer words of encouragement to him and those around him.

Although he left home when I was 7 and was never really a presence in my life I do love my Dad and after years of feeling angry and abandoned I have made peace with him and accepted the fact that he loves me as much as he can. I also believe that one day I will see the "Father" that God created for me before the sins and addictions made him into the man I know.

Satan may have a hold on him now but he belongs to the Lord and nothing can separate him from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus! (Romans 8:38-39)

Beth Moore says that by giving us "His Word" and "Prayer" God has handed us two sticks of dynamite with which to demolish strongholds. So today Pablo and I are forming our own demolition crew on behalf of Grandpa Tom! We would love for you to join us if you feel so inclined.......

Time For a Change......

2008-09-04T11:33:00.016-05:00

You know what's great about redecorating my blog as opposed to my house?
~~First of all it's cheaper but secondly my family can't mess it up!!~~

I have been on an organizing kick ever since the kids went back to school and today I thought I would share a couple of my latest projects.

The Laundry Room.....

One of my favorite organizing tools is the "over the door pocket shoe holder". I have one of these on the back of almost every closet door. Recently I purchased one for the laundry room so all of the cleaning supplies could live together in one place instead of being scattered throughout the closet and cabinets.

My Jewelry......

As I was looking for a way to store my necklaces and bracelets I came up with a cheap and easy alternative to those expensive jewelry armoires. Hand towel racks are perfect for keeping chains from tangling and they are small enough to keep on a closet shelf or pretty enough to set out on the dresser for display! I have also found that tie racks are great for hanging my thinner chains on.

The Deck....

I got this idea from a magazine. I bought a large cabinet for $10. at a garage sale and it is perfect to store all of my outdoor essentials; grilling tools and spices, candles, tablecloths, garden tools, dog toys..... I may end up painting the cabinet and changing the door handles but for now it works great!!

So there you have my top 3 organizing tips of the week.
Actually this may be the most I get done all year. I want to be organized but find that it just doesn't happen for me very often. I think my desire comes from my mother, she is the most organized person I know (its been said she even folds her dirty laundry before she washes it!). It isn't easy living in her shadow, especially with 3.5 times as many children as she had, but her example does keep me pressing on. If nothing else she made me into an organizing wannabe. Thanks Mom!

One Less Teenager in our Family....

2008-09-04T08:42:00.013-05:00

When my first daughter was born she looked exactly like I would have expected; small, pink, delicate and bald.
In fact, at 7 lbs. 9 oz. she was on the bigger side of the babies born in my family.

So 19 months later when I delivered daughter #2 I was more than a little surprised by her appearance.

At 9 lbs. 9 oz. there was nothing small or delicate about her and she was far from bald!

My plan had been to name her "Lacey" but after seeing her the name didn't quite seem to fit. So my husband and I quickly came up with an alternative.....JESSICA.

We had intended to stick with her full name or call her Jess but by the time she could talk she called herself Jessie. And by the time she could spell she dropped the "e" to just Jessi. Now if we call her Jessica it is only because she is in trouble.

Looking back, choosing her own name was the perfect way to start her life. She is not one to fit a mold, she does things her way and most of the time is wildly successful! Sports, music, school, work, art, dance, church.....whatever she does she is dedicated, works hard and usually excells at it. I learned a long time ago that when she gets an idea in her head there is no talking her out of it.

As for the hair, she still has more than the rest of us combined.....

Have a Happy Birthday Jessi, I love you and I am very proud of you!

Holiday Weekend Recap.....

2008-09-02T05:33:00.000-05:00

Lessons I learned while being a single parent this weekend.......

1) Teenagers will get over not being able to attend the concert they want to go to if you allow them to attend the high school soccer game, have some friends come over to"hang out" for awhile, buy her two new pairs of shoes, some "Bath & Body Works" bubblebath, take her out for Mexican food and a chocolate covered apple from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Oh, and let her color part of her hair purple.

2) When walking the dog be sure you plant your foot directly onto the pavement and do not allow it to slide off the sidewalk resulting in a badly sprained ankle. If you do find yourself lying on the neighbor's lawn with a sprained ankle try not to scare your 6 year old by crying out in pain.

3) Never bring a "Buzz Lightyear" doll into a restaurant when dining out with a teenage girl. It is totally embarrassing!

4) My 6 yr. old gives great ankle massages!

5) It seems that my 11 yr. old daughter is the only girl on her soccer team (and perhaps in the whole soccer club) that doesn't have her own cell phone. This resulted in her commandeering her Dad's cell phone all weekend and sending some crazy messages home to mom.

6) Stairs are not good for sprained ankles!

7) According to my 6 yr. old, his sister is a Drama Queen; and according to my daughter, her brother is annoying. It never fails that the ones who are most alike have the most trouble getting along with each other? If you ask me they are both Drama Royalty and both have their moments of being annoying! I have no idea where they get that!

8) Never expect to arrive anywhere on time when dealing with a teenage girl. And on top of making you late she will make it seem like it is your fault!

9) There is something so relaxing about good music. I rediscovered my Martina McBride "Timeless" CD and played it all weekend! Life slows down when Martina sings!

9) Remember, no matter what Buzz Lightyear says, this is not "an intergalactic emergency!"

10) As soon as the swelling goes down in my ankle I am having a garage sale. There is way too much junk in my house!

Last but not least I learned that absence really does make the heart grow fonder. As much as I enjoyed some down time I also missed the rest of my brood.

I think they missed me too....
My girls haven't stopped telling me all about their time away. They can't decide which is worse, the fact the team lost 3 out of 4 games or that Dad's snoring made it impossible to sleep at night. Even my grown up 17 yr. old son gave me a big bear hug when they returned. And best of all I got some much needed sympathy over my ankle!

As the holiday draws to a close I have to say I couldn't have asked for a better Labor Day Weekend!

Be Careful What You Wish For...

2008-08-29T09:06:00.006-05:00

Pictures like this one bring back so many memories.....

Memories of being overwhelmed with motherhood, memories of isolation and loneliness (it can be hard to find friends when your children demand so much time and attention), memories of feeling inadequate and trying to be what others expected of me. Memories of bad hair days (lol).

I remember thinking, "When they are all able to tie their own shoes life will get so much easier!"

HA! Did I have a lot to learn!

This past week my oldest daughter suffered a break-up and a broken heart, my daughter at college lost a friend to suicide, my son totaled his car by hitting a curb and my 16 yr. old is not speaking to me because I won't let her go to a concert she wants to attend.

Suddenly those days of carrying babies, fastening car seats, changing diapers, washing bottles... don't look so overwhelming after all.

However I do see God at work in every one of these situations:

~My oldest daughter was dating a young man who is not a Christian, is very selfish and expected her to change for him.
~My college daughter has turned to Jesus for comfort in her loss.
~My son will be forced to work harder to pay for his car and not take his transportation for granted. Losing a little freedom as a senior in high school is not necessarily a bad thing.
~My teenage daughter, well her obedience to our rules is being tested while our trust in her is being rebuilt.

As for me, God is blessing me with a little "downtime" this weekend. As most of my family travels St. Louis for a soccer tournament I am looking forward to some R&R in my own home! God is good!!

Back to School.......

2008-08-24T21:50:00.007-05:00

For the past month or so I have been dreading the new school year. I am not a big fan of change and quite frankly I have enjoyed my summer. No set schedules, homework or carpools; lazy days at the swimming pool; enjoying late night suppers on the back deck; impromptu playdates with neighborhood kids.

Not to mention that normally by this time of year I am seeking relief from summer's brutal heat, but this year's temperatures were unusually pleasant. Why can't summer last forever???

One night I woke up in a panic as to how I was going to get 5 kids to and from 4 different schools. Logistically it is a nightmare and my brain was tired just trying to think about it.

On top of that I am faced with the emotionally draining facts that my oldest son is entering his senior year while my youngest is starting kindergarten. I am praying for my daughter as she seeks a fresh start in a new high school and also a pre-teen entering the "big kid" world of middle school.

Needless to say I have not been much of an "aroma of joy". In fact, you might say I "stink of stress". How did I get in charge of this whole operation? What was God thinking when He gave me this job??

Wouldn't you think I would have it all down by now? That raising so many kids would be easy? I am always blown away when people say to me, "you must be so organized" or "you are much more patient than I am". Funny, I don't feel organized or patient. Some people have gone so far as to call me "laid back". That makes my kids laugh out loud since they think I am the most uptight person they know.

So as the school deadline approached, and my stomach tightened into knots, I was an emotional basket case. The night before school began my husband and I sat down with all of our kids (the 5 left at home) and came together in prayer. We each shared our fears and concerns for the week and then we prayed over them all. Even our teenagers joined in willingly.

Monday morning came and I shocked everyone when I got up and made pancakes and sausage for breakfast. They all got to their respective schools and I found myself breathing easier than I had in weeks. I did laundry, organized the laundry room, updated the calendar, washed the dishes......

Still, I had to get my youngest to Kindergarten. How would I cope with that emotionally? As we walked to school he held my hand and we talked about how glad we are that I am his mom and he is my little boy. How would I ever let go of this little hand?

While we waited for his teacher I knelt down next to him and lovingly said, "I am really going to miss you today" and in the sweetest little voice he said, "I think I have to fart." As I watched my little guy follow his teacher into the building I was reminded that God really does have a sense of humor and as I walked home alone I smiled and remembered that Jesus was with me holding my hand.

Last night (Sunday) we once again sat down as a family to pray over the week that lies ahead. I called my older girls for their prayer requests and we lifted all of our concerns to the Lord as a family. We also started a family prayer journal so we can keep track of God's blessings.

At small group this week we had to share our favorite scripture. The one I chose was Matthew 6:33---"seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." Just a couple of weeks ago I was stressed out and on the brink of depression because I was relying on myself, now I am hopeful this will be the best year yet for our family. What a difference it makes when I fully rely on God!!

Blogger Interrupted......

2008-08-19T05:36:00.002-05:00

We interrupt regularly scheduled blog posting to bring you a new soccer season.....

And a new school year.....

We promise to return after a few hours of much needed rest.....
Meanwhile, feel free to blog amongst yourselves, LOL!!

The Party Goes On.....

2008-08-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

There once was a girl with a curl
Right in the middle of her forehead,
When she was good she was very, very good
But when she was bad she was horrid!

I have always joked that this poem was written for my daughter due to the fact she has a cowlick in the middle of her forehead which results in a curl. Of course now she wears those bangs long so you would never know it. It is one of those things only a Mom knows.

I love those "secrets" that exist between a Mom and her offspring. Things like:

~~It makes her crazy when I click my fingernails together.
~~Her forehead has a permanent bump from when she took a bad fall as a child.
~~She can't stand to talk about feet. In her opinion they are "sick".
~~Her favorite bible story is about Queen Esther.
~~In our church very few women serve communion and she is totally humiliated when I do it (so I serve as often as I can, haha!).
~~She wants to name her future daughters Vegas and Blaize.
~~Taco Bell is as good as it gets!
~~She is embarrassed by just about everything (especially in front of her boyfriend). Including birthday scrapbook pages posted on her Mom's blog (so of course I must post, hahaha!).
~~IPOD is her best friend.
~~She is NEVER happy with her hair!
~~Regular cake is boring, cookie cake is cool!
~~As a baby, if we covered her face with a blanket she would stop crying.
~~Whatever you do----Don't ever tell her what to do!! (especially if you are her sibling)

Anyway, you get the idea. I guess all of these things aren't so secret anymore.

I wonder what kind of things God would say if he were to write a list of "secrets" only He knows about me. YIKES, I think I am glad God doesn't publish a blog!

Oh, and we have finally gotten her enrolled in a school. Door #3 seems to be the right one, thanks for all of the prayers!!

WFW~~Maranatha

2008-08-13T05:42:00.001-05:00

I learned a new word at church last Sunday. Actually, I had heard the word before because it is the name of a local Christian School. I just didn't know what it meant until our Pastor told us last week.

The word is Maranatha! It is an Aramic word that means "O Lord Come" or "Our Lord Come".

I love the sound of this word and have found myself saying it a lot this week. "Maranatha LORD, Maranatha!" My kids respond by rolling their eyes and saying, "Oh Mom, you are so dramatic!" HA! If that isn' t the pots calling the kettle black!

Anyway, I am keeping this verse nearby. With school getting ready to start, sports in full swing and the state of our world right now I have a feeling I will be saying it quite often. Just in case Jesus wants my opinion on the matter....... "Maranatha, Lord, Maranatha"!!

Be sure to see the other beautiful WFW offerings at 160 Acre Wood!

Test Update & More Golf Lessons.......

2008-08-12T05:22:00.002-05:00

Thank you all so much for the prayers concerning my test! There may be a lump in this vessel of clay but it seems that it is nothing to worry about.

It was funny to hear my kids' reaction to the fact I was having a sonogram. They thought for sure there was a baby on the way until they found out where the sonogram was being done. I think they were actually disappointed. I think I was a little disappointed... and then I regained my sanity and remembered how all babies become teenagers one day and I still have 14 years of that left!

After yesterday's post about my son's golf experience, today I want to take a moment to brag on my two girls.

Cece finished third in the 10 yr. old championship flight and Sophie took fifth in the 8 yr. old division.

I love the fact that the girls get to play this game. In fact I grew up in a family of golfers. My Great Uncle was a golf pro and one of my cousins played her way through college on a scholarship. My grandparents were avid golfers and built a beautiful home on a golf course.

As for me, I didn't play my first game of golf until I was 32 years old and 8 months pregnant with my 5th baby. I had been to the driving range several times and had played miniature golf (so I was an expert putter, lol). My husband said I really didn't belong on the golf course but one of my very patient girlfriends convinced me that I should try playing the Par 3 with her.

If nothing else, I looked the part that day. Wearing a cute maternity Polo shirt, a visor and my new golf shoes my girlfriend and I were paired up with another couple to make a foursome. I still remember the look on that man's face when I said it was my first time out. Although he was smiling, he didn't look happy!

I did OK that day but here is what I learned:

1) Golf is not in the genes. It doesn't matter how good or accomplished your family is, you have to develop your own game.

2) You cannot rely on your strength to drive the ball. It isn't a HARD swing but a CORRECT swing that makes the ball go.

3) The game of golf is never perfected. It must be practiced regularly with lots of time spent on the course in order to be successful.

And here is how I am trying to apply these lessons to my everyday:

1) I can't compare myself to others, God has a plan & purpose especially for me!

2) I must NOT rely on my own strength but depend upon the power of the Holy Spirit!

3) I must spend plenty of time in the presence of God and immersing myself in His Word.

It has been years since I have actually played golf but these lessons are timeless and I am so glad that God shared them with me! And you can bet I will be passing them on to the next generation!

Golfitis

2008-08-11T05:23:00.000-05:00

Once a year, the first week in August, our family is overcome with "Golfitis".

There is a local junior golf tournament that our kids have played in for several years. It is a 3 day tournament and kids come from all around the area to play in it.

Some of the complimentary gifts the participants receive upon entering the tournament are: a shirt, a sleeve of balls, a golf towel, a golf umbrella and more. All a player has to do to get these gifts is to sign up to play.

However after 3 days of play there are "special prizes" awarded to each golfer according to their overall performance.......

1st through 6th place trophies are awarded for each flight in every age group so nearly all of the kids get a trophy. Some are a little bigger than others but the kids don't seem to mind, they are thrilled to have such a beautiful piece of hardware and they all feel like winners!

However, this year I know of 3 kids (one of whom was my son) who didn't receive a trophy because they were disqualified from the tournament before it was over. Their offenses were very different but the results were the same; they could finish the tournament but were ineligible for the rewards at the end.....

On the second afternoon of play my son found himself playing in a group of cheaters. These boys were so blatantly cheating that the group ahead of them turned them in. When confronted with their behavior two of the boys admitted their deceit while the third lied. When my son was asked if he did anything wrong he answered truthfully:

"on one hole I lost my ball near a sewer. When I couldn't find it I dropped a ball and gave myself a penalty stroke."

Unfortunately the rules state that under those circumstances he should have returned to the tee box to do the shot over. The fact that my son didn't know that rule didn't matter, he was guilty of breaking the rules and was disqualified from the trophy race.

After getting over the initial anger and disappointment I have seen some very valuable life lessons here:

1) Be careful who you associate with!
If he had not been with cheaters no one would have questioned his game. Sometimes we choose to be with people of bad character but other times, like in this situation, life just places us there and we had better know how to handle ourselves. Not only do we need to hold ourselves to an even higher moral standard, we should do whatever we can to separate ourselves from their sinful ways or it may be THEIR behavior that brings US down. Had he been playing with people who knew and followed the rules they might have been able to stop him from inadvertently breaking them.

2) Care more about doing what is right than how you look to others!
When he noticed these kids cheating my son could have told a field Marshall what was going on but he didn't want to look like a "rat". Sometimes it is in our own best interest that we stand up and do what's right even if it is not the "popular" thing to do.

3) Ignorance is no excuse!
Breaking the rules is breaking the rules and the consequences are the same whether we break them intentionally or inadvertently. Similarly, sins of omission are no different than sins of commission. God isn't interested in excuses!

4) Who we are now will determine who we are (and what we have) in heaven!
Take for example the boy who cheated, lied and got away with it. He ended up winning the 5th place trophy in his flight (coincidentally, that would have been my son's prize had he not been disqualified). It certainly isn't uncommon to see people get ahead through deceitful behavior, but the bible says that if we have received our reward on earth it will not be ours in heaven. On the other hand, I have to believe that because my son chose to do the right thing and forgo the earthly reward, he will be rewarded for his honesty.

5) Being disqualified from the tournament doesn't mean we can't complete the game!
All 3 boys were allowed to play out the day even if they were ineligible for the rewards at the end. I believe our salvation is secure once Jesus is our Lord but should we choose to remove Him from the throne of our life, we are choosing to forfeit the rewards He wants to give us.

The final spiritual parallel I saw in this situation was from a different perspective. Just as Jesus is our advocate I saw my husband search the rule book until he found an "exception" to the rule that seemed to justify our son's position. In the end it didn't change the outcome, but our son has seen that even though he made a mistake his father loves him dearly and is willing to be his defender.

I do want to be perfectly clear that I don't believe in "earning your way into heaven based on performance". Just like the "entry gifts" of the tournament our salvation is ours to keep once we have placed Jesus as Lord of our life. What I do think is, that just like the golf trophies, the way we live our "earthly lives" as Christians will result in rewards we receive in heaven.

TSMS~~His Eye Is On the Sparrow.....

2008-08-09T12:20:00.008-05:00

Mammogram results on Friday mean a sonogram on Monday.....
Preparing 5 children to go to 4 different schools.......
Trying to schedule a birthday party around 13 people's schedules......
Sports practices in full force.......

My friend the bird who lives in the fern on my front porch became a Mama again this week. As she was off hunting for food I snapped a picture of her babies.

This week we have seen scorchingly hot temperatures as well as severe thunderstorms with high winds and driving rain. Yet this Mother bird sits on her nest and trusts completely in God's loving care. Oh how I want to be more like that bird as I endure the intense heat, pressure and storms of my life!

Make sure to visit Amy today for more musical encouragement, you will be glad you did!

Opinion Poll & Another Closed Door!

2008-08-08T05:30:00.000-05:00

Today I would like to take an opinion poll........

Have you read the book "The Shack" and if so what did you think of it?

I read it earlier in the summer and although I wouldn't say it was the best book I ever read, as far as the writing goes, for some reason I found myself thinking about it a lot. Mostly I was fascinated with the nature of God that it depicted.

After I read it I recommended it to several friends and family members but now I have heard of some people who didn't like it at all. So I am just curious; what is your opinion (if you have one).

And if you haven't read The Shack, what book have you read recently that you would recommend?

On another note, in the never-ending drama to find a new school for my daughter we had door #2 close on us this week. We had put in a transfer request to another school in our district only to discover that school is full and closed to transfers. God must have a very specific plan as to where He wants her to go and He is not going to let us mess it up.

I am praying we hit the jackpot with door #3 (whatever that may be....). Thank God that He gives us unlimited chances and Thank You for your prayers in this journey!

11 Years Ago!

2008-08-06T22:59:00.010-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CECELIA!

After having 4 babies in 5 years my youngest would be heading to kindergarten just as this one was ready to be born. I was looking forward to being able to enjoy giving her all of my attention. (Little did I know I would have 2 more by the time she was 5).

We told the kids we were expecting by letting them open a package of baby clothes on Christmas Eve. It took them a little while but they finally figured out that we were having a baby and we didn't just mess up on their sizes. haha!

Throughout my entire pregnancy with her I worked out at the gym. I would run on the treadmill, do step classes, circuits and I even went snow skiing during my first trimester. I have always wondered if I caused her to be athletic or if she was causing me to?????

I am so glad we got the labor and delivery on film. The doctor was so kind as to order an epidural before he even induced the labor. From the time I felt some pressure to the time of delivery it was less than 20 minutes! The doctor was literally sprinting into the room to catch her.

Of course it wasn't all pain-free. I got bad sores and infections while trying to nurse her (I think it was God's way of humbling me because I thought I was such an expert after having nursed the first 4). When my husband said, "I don't think you can do this" I set out to prove him wrong. I called the "Lactation Consultant" and she helped me through it. He should know better than to ever tell me I can't do something!

There is no way to put my feelings for this baby into words, I am just praising the LORD for her today!

I love you Cece!!

WFW~~A Mini Retreat

2008-08-06T06:30:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to be back in the word and posting on Word Filled Wednesday again. It has been a few weeks and I have missed it.

I took this picture a couple of weeks ago when I went to a party at a friends house. She lives on a working farm and it is absolutely beautiful! Besides the several fruit trees growing in the yard she has a garden where the kids and I picked blueberries, blackberries and cucumbers.

As if that weren't wonderful enough there is a huge swimming pool in her back yard where everyone swam until they were exhausted!

This is a picture of the arbor that separates the garden from the pool and patio.

Is that not gorgeous????

It's always a fun place to visit and even if I don't get to travel anywhere this year I feel like I got to enjoy a vacation for a day.

For more Word-Filled Wed. blessings be sure to visit Amydeanne.

It's Not About Me (at least not today).....

2008-08-05T08:37:00.000-05:00

Being the kind of humble, behind-the-scenes person I am, today I am dedicating my blog post to other people. Of course these are some very special people (as they would have to be to earn blog time on my site). HA!

Today is my husband's birthday and he is now officially as old as I am, at least until November when I will once again be the oldest in the family (a fact my kids will never let me forget!).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY John, I love you very much!

Actually I know a lot of people who are celebrating a birthday today. In fact I think August 5th is the most common birthday date in my circle of friends and family. Do you have a "most common birthday date"?

In a couple of days my daughter will be celebrating a birthday as well. She will turn 11 so she is still "pre-teen sweet". She spent last week at camp and today she is posting about it on her blog. Of course she only briefly mentions the bible teaching (that was the focus of the camp) and never writes about the awesome prayer and worship experiences, but she gives great details about the fun and games. Actually, reading between the lines, all of the weeks activities encouraged relationships and team work.

Anyway, if you are so inclined please visit her HERE.

So with that I will sign off and let my husband and daughter be the stars of the day, they really do deserve it much more than I do anyway!!

Because I Said So......

2008-08-04T05:07:00.000-05:00

My 17 yr. old son has found his first girlfriend.

He has "liked" a few girls in the past but got tired of them quickly because, according to him, they talked too much.

"Mom, do all girls talk on the phone this much?"

"Yes son, they do!"

Anyway, he met a girl on the "Beach Conference" trip with the church youth group (she is the friend of one of the girls at church) and he has been spending quite a bit of time with her.

Because we don't know her or her family yet we told him we would prefer they hang out at our house. Also, we would like for them to watch movies in the den, not in the basement. Well, you would think I said we are going to cut off his left arm.

"Why can't we go to the basement to watch movies? We always watch movies in the basement, isn't that what the basement is for?"

Although I didn't have to, I decided to try and explain why I wanted to institute this rule: I spoke about respecting your date, being a positive role model for the younger kids, the temptations of being outside of supervision.........

But no matter what I said he argued and finally, I just laid it out "look, you don't have to like it and you don't have to understand it but you do need to obey it!"

Oh could I hear God in that statement!!!

As we have debated our daughter's school situation I thought I had found the "perfect" answer. There is a school nearby, where several of her friends from church attend. But it is in a different district and they don't accept transfers, however, my Mom lives in that district and we could use her address. Our other option ( in our own district) is much further away, not nearly as convenient and she wouldn't know anyone there.

Even though I really think the out-of-district school is the "perfect" answer and I have pleaded with God over this, He has obviously shut that door.

"Kelley, you don't have to like it and you don't have to understand it but you do need to obey it!"

The truth is I don't really know what is best for myself or my kids, but God does. He sees the picture I can't, the BIG PICTURE. The question is, am I going to obey Him or not? I just finished a study on several women who chose to "manipulate" circumstances instead of trusting God (Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel.....) and we are still living with the results of their actions. Since I don't want to leave that kind of legacy for my children, I am choosing to walk in faith and obey the Lord on this decision (although I still don't like it!).

As for my son, he has agreed to be obedient to my "movie watching" rule as well (although he still doesn't like it).

If You're Gonna Have Teenagers......

2008-08-01T07:09:00.004-05:00

Good Morning and welcome to my home!

Should you need it, the toilet paper can be found in the trees today!

And this kind gentleman will be glad to collect some for you.......

He was really mad at me for taking his picture.

I was just glad we don't live in our old house with the 9 HUGE trees in our yard. This is nothing compared to those TP jobs!

25 years of teens!

I wonder how many more mornings like this one I have to look forward to???

Letters from Camp.......

2008-07-31T05:30:00.001-05:00

On Monday morning I dropped my 10 yr. old daughter off at camp. She is staying in a cabin on a small lake with 11 of her girlfriends (I have to say I am a little envious).

The camp offers swimming, fishing and several "theme night" activities such as: Mexican Fiesta night, Board Game Night, Olympics Night and Rock Band Night.

The best part however, is that this is a Christian camp so the kids are singing worship songs and hearing bible teaching along with quiet time to connect with God through His word and their journals (now I am REALLY envious! lol).

I am so grateful that Cece is able to have this experience. When my oldest daughters were her age we didn't know about this camp so they went to a different, secular camp. Fortunately I saved the letters they wrote (along with every other note my children have written me) while they were gone. These notes and letters are even more precious to me now that they are grown (19 & 21).

So here, in their own words, are the experiences of my little campers:

These letters were written from Girl Scout Camp when the girls were in 2nd & 3rd grade:

Dear Mom and Dad,
I wish I could come home so I could eat your food. The food here is very gross.
And also I wish I could come home so I could flush the toilets.
I made a candle for both of you.

Dear Kids,
I miss you guys. Has mom called my name and then she figures out I'm not there?
I hope you are busy because I am really busy.

XOXO I love you all,
Lauren

Dear Mom, Dad and Kids,
Camp is great so far! I have met many people. I share a cabin with Lizzie, Olivia and Beth.
The showers are freezing and have bugs crawling on the walls.
The people who sleep next to us have to talk all the time. Well I passed the treading water test and I don't have athlete's foot or lice. I gotta go now.

--Jessie

Dear Mom and Dad,
Yesterday I got dehydrated and homesick so I threw up. Today I feel fine. I have a million bug bites (exagerated). We have a wasp nest in our tent but it's dead. Everything here is going wrong.

Kids,
It is fun here but you get too many bug bites. The food is really bad.

xoxo-Jessie
ps. keep writing

These next letters were written on a camping trip the girls took with their 6th grade classes:

Dear Mom and Dad,
Wildwood is really fun! Sarah thinks that Jordan likes me because he is always standing near me and talking to me. He also helped me fish when we went fishing.

Jordan caught a turtle and I got a picture. Melissa got a tic in her belly button.

You know those pants that are hippy type, well on Tuesday I got mud all over them because it was really muddy.

Our bathroom smells really bad because of the toilet. Well anyway the plumber found a dead mouse in the tube.

Oh by the way, the teacher snores! I can't sleep.
Well got to go!
I miss you all!

Love,
Lauren XOXOXOXOX

DearFamily,
Here I am at beautiful, out-in-the-sticks Wildwood.
The teachers bunk is right next to mine.
The food here isn't too good, only the dessert.
I can do the log dance, I will show you when I get home.

--Jessi
ps. tell the dogs I miss them a lot
pps. Becky hit me in the nose and I got a headache but I'm Okay!!

Dear Family,
I am doing just fine. On Mon. I got a bad headache but took 2 Advil.
On Tues. we went on the Adventure Challenge course and I got a headache.
I can't sleep because the people snore (not the teacher but Dana and Anna T.).
On Tues. I got a tick on my stomach and one on my armpit.
Well I gotta go eat dinner. Yum Yum!

--Jessi

Dear Family,
Okay, I don't think I ever want to come back here without being prepared.
On both Monday and Tuesday I got a headache and now I think I'm headached out!
On Tuesday, like I said I got ticks but I didn't have 2, I had 5! WOW!

The weather is very nice and I am going canoing this afternoon.

I bet if Jake has a ball game during my recital Dad would go to the ball game instead.

I have seen many animals here. I have seen frogs, turtles, pelicans and more. I went fishing but none of the fish took the food.

I will see you Friday.

~~Jessi

Like I said, I am so glad I kept those letters. They are priceless!

Garbage Day....

2008-07-29T22:13:00.011-05:00

I think it is only fair that I should warn you about a certain sub division here in Kansas that has recently encountered an unusual amount of trash.

A couple of days ago I went out to run for the first time in a few weeks. As I ran I could feel the garbage that had been building up inside of me fall off onto the road where I left it behind....

Worries about my children's choices and behavior.

Decisions about their future.

Preparing for my son's senior year at high school.

Which school to send my daughter to.

Sending my youngest off to kindergarten.

Concerns about my husband's job security.

Feeling judged and rejected by my peers.

Fighting the worldly influences that surround & tempt me.

Frustrations in family relationships.

Feeling overwhelmed by the events on the calendar.

Staying on top of the bills, laundry, dinner...

Resuming my role at CBS.

Feeling out of shape.

Ignoring the voice of Satan who says, "You will not succeed so don't try"

Yes, there is a lot of garbage back on those roads.

I know that God doesn't want me carrying all of that around. He wants me to lay it at His feet so He can deal with it. But sometimes that can be a hard thing to do. As I pray about it my mind says "let go" but my stubborn body has a death grip on the stress.

That is when I need to come to the end of myself physically and release the endorphines that help to give me relief from stress and worry.

I need to think less and trust God more.

I need to stop trying to control my circumstances and let God control me.

I am still not sure I even like running. It is hard, uncomfortable and requires commitment and quite honestly I live in a world of relative ease and comfort. Yet, it is in the act of pushing myself physically that I exhaust my own resources and find peace in the presence of God.

Now if I can just remember this lesson perhaps I won't leave a garbage trail the next time I go out to run!

Let the Games Begin......

2008-07-28T22:05:00.003-05:00

Tag....It seems that I am "it".

Not once, but twice this week I have been tagged. I love a good game so why not play online...

First of all here are the rules:
1) Link to the person who tagged you (that would be Susan and Rebecca)
2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6)
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up

Now for my 6 random facts:

1) Quin and I were "almost" in a magazine ad when he was a baby. A local modeling agency called and said Walmart had chosen us to come and be photographed for a diaper ad. Unfortunately Quin didn't cooperate very well and kept crawling off. They paid us for our time but decided to go with the "alternate model" and her "cooperative" baby girl.

2) I like almost all foods and beverages except Pizza and Iced Tea. YUCK!!

3) Shortly after I got married I taught myself to sew. I made all kinds of clothing and projects but my favorite things to create were costumes. Our family became known as "The Halloween Family". I would still sew if I could locate my sewing machine under the piles of junk in the basement.

4) I am a recovering Fantasy Football addict. I drafted a team one year and became obsessed with the game. For three years I knew every player on every team and I was respected as the only female in the league! But when my husband's team beat mine (by 1 point) I refused to speak to him; and when we shushed the kids because we couldn't hear the "up to the minute highlights" on the radio I figured it was time to hang it up. However, I still get a thrill when that highlight music plays. LOL

5) I am terrified of snakes! Even thinking about them creeps me out much less seeing one on TV or in a movie, or heaven forbid if I were to ever run across one in person!!! YIKES!

6) I would never have thought of myself as a computer person and yet here I am writing a blog and redesigning blogs for others. In fact both of the women who tagged me have asked me to work on their designs!

Wow, that was hard. I didn't realize how uninteresting I am!

So hmmmm, now who to tag? So many of you have already been tagged and I don't want to put undue pressure on anyone. How about this: If you have not yet been tagged and participated in this game, you are now it.......

TSMS~~Unanswered Prayers!!

2008-07-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I wrote about my kids and the funny things they have said. But then I got to thinking about what my Father (God) would write about me if He had a blog! I am sure He would chuckle as He told you about some of my prayers over the years!

Here is how my life might look if God had answered some of those prayers.........

This is what I would look like:

This is who I would have married:

This would be my career:

And because I prayed that I would have 14 children (I even had all of their names picked out), my family would have looked a lot more like this......

Today I am thanking God for answering these prayers by leaving them unanswered.

Instead I look like this........

This is who I married........

I enjoy my career as a "Full Time Mom/Part Time Bible Teacher"......

And instead of: Brooke, Brad, David, Doug, Natalie, Matt, Sandy, Chris, Corrie, Carrie, Scott, Teresa, Joey and Chrissy, God has blessed me with this bunch of gorgeous offspring.......

I think this song by Garth Brooks sums it up best, some of God's greatest gifts are "Unanswered Prayers"!

Enjoy your Saturday and be sure to visit Amy at Signs, Miracles and Wonders for more music that will make your soul sing!

Out of the Mouths of Babes & a Brilliant Award....

2008-07-25T06:22:00.001-05:00

Sometimes a mom needs a translator!

Case in point, here is a conversation I had with one of my girls recently as we were driving to Walmart.

Daughter: "Mom, can we eat at that restaurant called "Terri's Poles" sometime?"

Me (afraid of what "poles" are doing in a restaurant): "HUH?"

Daughter: "You know, they are all over the place. There is one right over there...."

Of course some of my children suffer from "foot in mouth" disease (it's hereditary on their Dad's side). Several days ago the doorbell rang and this is what my sweet girl said to me:

"Mom, someone's at the door for you but don't bother putting on makeup, you don't have to look good!"

That same afternoon I had to explain to my teenage daughter:

"NO, you cannot get a tan by lying in the shade!"

There is never a dull moment around here that is for sure!

So now you know why I blog; it is so much easier than trying to communicate with my family! And it's where I find a little R.E.S.P.E.C.T!

Speaking of respect, today I want to say a HUGE "Thank You" to Amy at Signs, Miracles and Wonders for presenting me with an award (I can't think of my last "non blogger" award).
She thinks I am "Brilliante"!! I'm pretty sure no one in "real life" has called me brilliante recently!

Now I am supposed to pass this on to 7 more "Brilliante" bloggers.

However, I am going to cheat again and pass it to the first 7 commenters on this post (assuming of course there are 7 of you). In my mind you are all Brilliante and there is no way I could choose a favorite 7!

So if you are one of my first 7 comments make sure to copy the button and share the Brilliance with 7 more......

My Week So Far and Word Filled Wednesday....

2008-07-23T05:30:00.002-05:00

The two teenagers have returned from the beach conference and the pace of life has picked back up around here.They did strengthen friendships within their youth group and enjoyed the teaching that was presented so I suppose the trip was a success. The question now is, "how to keep the flame of faith burning while returning to every day life?" But then, that is a question we all must work through!

The school issue for Lilly still hasn't been finalized. We did have one door close today but we are still praying for God's direction as we try to make a decision as to which high school she should attend next year.

Monday was the last night of my "Slightly Bad Girls" bible study.
Like the other "Bad Girls" books, this one is very good and I highly recommend it. I am grateful that thousands of years later we can still learn lessons from the "imperfect" women of the bible! God's grace covered them and it is what I am clinging to today!

I look forward to the day I can talk with Sarah, Rebekah, Leah and Rachel. Won't those be some interesting conversations???

The highlight of my week so far was Monday night when Lelia came to visit! Her son had to catch an early flight out of Kansas City so she spent the night at my house. I loved introducing my family to one of my blogging friends (I told you they are real people!!).

Unfortunately, she had to leave far too quickly but she promises to come back soon and stay longer. Meanwhile I got a much needed baby fix from her granddaughter Amiyah....

I also spent some time outside this week with my camera where I captured my neighbors' sunflowers. They are so majestic looking, some stand over 8 FT tall! They are also the State flower of Kansas. So this is my offering for Word Filled Wednesday this week....
Be sure to look for more photo/scripture encouragement here.

Hunting Lions?

2008-07-21T12:06:00.008-05:00

I recently received some pictures from a friend whose Dad and Brother went on an African Safari. As you can see they were very successful and are bringing home some rather big trophies. Seeing these pictures got me to thinking about 1 Peter 5:8:

“Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” Amplified

I remember when my daughter’s Girl Scout troop spent a night camping in the zoo. We set up tents in a field near the middle of the zoo. We enjoyed an early evening tour, snack and program. Then it was into our tents and sleeping bags for the night. A short time later we all heard the unmistakable sound of roaring of lions. It was LOUD and it sounded very close. Fortunately, I was very aware of the iron bars the lions lived behind. Without them it was only a thin piece of tarp that separated my daughter and I from those lions.

How different, in some ways, our culture is today from that in which Peter lived 2000 years ago. Here in Kansas we have our lions on display in cages. Lying in the sun and looking like giant kitty cats we rarely see a lion show much aggression. Peter certainly knew another side of lions, where they lived in the wild. Because he was compelled to compare our enemy, the devil, to a roaring lion, I wanted to know more about the lion Peter knew and how it operates!

First I learned about the lion's hunting technique:

It stalks its prey using as much cover as possible and then runs it down with a short rapid rush. In fact, lions have little stamina and will get quite close to the prey before charging. One source says that a lions final charge is made from as close as 10 meters.

How much more would we guard and protect ourselves if we realized how close our adversary is?

Ephesians 6:11 tells us to “put on the full armor of God and take a stand against the devil’s schemes.” If we could sense the devil’s presence we would NEVER be caught without our armor firmly in place. More often we think of him as “out there” and not “right here.”

I also found it relevant that a lions tongue is so rough it can draw blood just by licking you. All the more reason to heed James’ advice, “submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

Most of the lion’s hunting takes place under the poor lighting conditions of early evening, at dawn or during the night. The lion is at a disadvantage when its prey is able to see clearly. We must remember that God is our light and our safety is dependant on Him. Psalm 119:105 states: “thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” If we venture from that path we are vulnerable to attack. John 11:10 warns us “it is when we walk by night that we stumble, for we have no light.”

Another hunting tactic for the lion is to lie in wait for its prey to come and drink from the water hole during the dry season.

Perhaps nothing is more disturbing than seeing the devil’s destruction in the spiritual lives of believers and/or the church. The book of Matthew is full of Jesus’ warnings to the teachers of the law and the Pharisees, whom He calls hypocrites. Matthew 23:13 is especially sobering; “you shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” Matthew 15:8 speaks of those who “honor Him with their lips but their hearts are far from Him.” What better victory for Satan than one within the body of Christ?

And then I learned about the lion's prey:

It is commonly believed that lions attack weak, sick, wounded or old. The fact of the matter is, they will attack and eat whatever is closest to them. Sex, age and condition are not a factor in a lions hunt and they are not a factor in the enemy’s pursuit.

One article I found says that lions are “always ready to eat whatever type of meat they find.” They will even take over, or steal, kills made by other carnivores.

The devil hunts us when we are on the mountaintop or in the valley, when we are celebrating and when we are broken by our circumstances. Whether we are old, young, rich, poor, male or female, we have an equal opportunity enemy and he is hungry for our destruction.

Of course, if we are covered by the blood of Christ he can’t take our salvation, but he can reduce us to walking bones instead of a joyful, and fruitful, heart and soul. Jesus clearly tells us this in John 10:10 when he says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy: I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

On the other hand, lions rarely eat an entire kill. They take what they want and leave the rest for hyenas and vultures to finish. Our enemy, also, leaves behind a wake of wounded, broken and lifeless people for the world to swallow up once he has had his fill.

Just as Adam and Eve were left alone and ashamed in the garden after Satan had convinced them to eat of the forbidden fruit, in our world today we don’t have to look far to see examples of people enticed into sin and the consequences they are forced to bear. Business scandals, Politicians, TV Evangelists are just a few public examples. However Satan is just as busy in the everyday world, leaving people’s lives devastated.

So how do we protect and defend ourselves against this beast? We can fight him with the strength of our own lion, the Lion of Judah. Jesus has said, “in this world you will have trouble but take heart, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.

Solving The Fur Dilemma...

2008-07-18T05:29:00.001-05:00

Something is coming between me and my "best friend".......

FUR!
This beautiful golden-furred girl is leaving part of herself on everything she touches. Actually she doesn't even have to touch it, the fur just finds it. The carpet, the clothes, the tables, the hardwoods....I'm beginning to understand why they call it "fur"niture.

I know she can't help it. It is probably a great embarrassment to her so I try not to mention it around her. Unlike the kids who just carelessly yell out, "THIS IS GROSS, THERE IS DOG HAIR EVERYWHERE!"

Well I recently learned about a product called the "FURMINATOR" (I apologize if this conjures up images of Arnold Schwarzenegger badly in need of a back wax!! EEWWW!). It is actually a "deshedding tool" recommended by dog groomers.

I first saw one of these at the local Pet Store where it seemed a bit pricey for a "dog brush". However I was able to find it on Amazon.com for a lot less, and best of all it had a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars! Well that's about all it takes to "sell" me on something~~a discount and positive consumer rating!

So we are waiting for delivery of our very own "Furminator". Meanwhile I am shaving the floors and waxing the "fur"niture. PLEASE hurry Mr. Postman........

Old Business & A New One!

2008-07-17T07:17:00.002-05:00

I need to take a couple of minutes today and thank two very wonderful ladies who have blessed me with an award........

Laurie Ann at "A Magnolia's Heart Beats" and Lea at "Shabby Olde Potting Shed" have both bestowed upon me the Arte Y Pico award.

Although I don't know what the wording actually means, I have seen the button bouncing around Blog Land and I am very honored to now have one of my own. I am amazed that anyone cares to read my ramblings, much less that they would give me an award for them! Thank you Laurie Ann and Lea!

Now I am supposed to share the wealth and pass the award on to five other bloggers. However, I have two problems with that:
1) I could never just choose five blogs out of all the ones that bless me.
2) Many of you have already received the award and what would you do with multiple Arte Y Pico awards?? The mantle might begin to look really crowded. LOL!

So if you are a reader of my ramblings and haven't received your Arte Y Pico award I am bestowing it upon you now!!!

As if the award was not enough, I would also like to thank Laurie Ann for allowing me to do her new blog design. I have been attempting to build a little "Blog Design" business in my spare time so I was thrilled when she asked me about a "blog redo"!

Please forgive the following shameless self promotion:
If you are ever in need of a "new look" I would LOVE to help! I am also considering doing some "holiday designs" if there is any interest. Feel free to email me if you want to know more.

Well, I think that about covers it! Today I am off to lounge in the sun and splash in the pool with the kids. Summer is passing by way too quickly and before we know it they will be back in school. Meanwhile enjoy your day and remember to be careful out there......

How many kids???

2008-07-16T05:30:00.000-05:00

When people find out I have 7 kids I generally get one of two responses:

#1) "OH, I know a lady with 12 kids. She home schools, works full time and runs marathons every weekend!"

In which case I feel like a slacker and think I had better get started making more babies right away!

OR

#2) "How in the world do you manage 7 kids??"

In which case I just say rather proudly, "It's nothing really, it's all in what you get used to."

Of course my two oldest offspring have somewhat left the nest. The oldest lives in a nearby apartment and we never know when we will be blessed with her ~~drama~~ company, and the next daughter is attending college so she only visits when she can. That leaves only 5 children at home full time (I am already starting to feel like a slacker!)

So on Saturday night, as my two teenagers boarded the Chartered Buses to head to the beach with their church youth group, I was suddenly overcome with a feeling of freedom I can't ever remember feeling before. Like a huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders.

My husband and I left the parking lot of the church with 3 little kids, and because there were half as many mouths to feed we headed out to dinner. We requested a table for 5, not the usual table for 9 that requires a 2 hour wait. We were able to enjoy adult conversation while the children colored on their place mats and giggled amongst themselves. YES! 3 is so doable!

Sunday was a day of leisurely watching the kids' sporting activities. After dinner Quin and I read for awhile in the hammock while John took the girls to the pool. Everyone was settled in by a reasonable hour and the house was quiet!

Monday was a day of organization. I filled 3 large trash bags in my teenage son's room. I cleaned the closets, changed the bedding, sprayed Fabreze and did more than 12 loads of laundry. There is not a sock in this house that is dirty!

Tuesday was a day of getting haircuts and having a birthday sleepover.

The plan for Wednesday is to go to the movies with Grandma, which translates into "a free afternoon for mom!"

Over the past few days I have discovered I am actually hearing myself think (I have heard of this phenomenon but can't remember the last time it actually happened to me!) Yes, this is the life. I can manage 3 kids. I can stay on top of them and clean up after them. We may even be able to afford them!?

Today as I was basking in my "mom of 3 coolness" I got a call from my college daughter. She is coming home this afternoon and bringing her boyfriend and his dog. By Saturday the teens will return from the beach and it will be a full house once again. Blaring stereos, TV's and raised voices will replace the peace and quiet that has been my life this week.

So as I was looking at my reflection in the mirror this morning, a conversation played out in my mind:

"How in the world do you manage 7 kids?"

"Only by the grace of God!"

A Day to Celebrate!

2008-07-15T05:06:00.001-05:00

Thank you all so much for the comments you left on my post yesterday concerning my daughter. It is humbling to know we are being lifted up in prayer by so many Godly women!! Your personal testimonies and words of encouragement give me such hope!

Although I know God will work her life for His purpose it is hard to be patient while she walks this road. I am reminded of the song: "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord." I don't know about you but I hate waiting alone, so thank you for coming alongside of me in this "wait".

However today I am celebrating, as it is my "baby's" 6th birthday! I can't believe how fast the past six years have flown by!

I found out I was pregnant just before Christmas so instead of announcing it to my family I sent sonogram pictures in my Christmas cards.

When I realized my due date was mid-July my husband went into a panic. That was prime baseball season for my then 11 yr. old son! The baby would have to be born in between the State and World Series tournaments. Fortunately for me the 11 yr. old World Series was local (the year before we had to travel to Memphis).

I'm sure my doctor thought we were crazy but he induced the day after the State tournament and I was pushing the baby in his stroller at the World Series games the next weekend.

The first time I saw him he frowned at me (he still has his dad's frown) and I remember thinking he had a HUGE nose (it is still a little on the large side).

The nurses overheard his brother exclaim, "11 years, 5 sisters and I FINALLY have a brother!"

The funny thing is, he is very different from his brother. He doesn't have any interest in sports (probably all that baseball when he was still in the womb!) but he loves superheros, pirates and garage sales!

Tonight he is having his best friend sleepover. The plan is to play Indiana Jones on the X-Box, then have chocolate cake and watch Larry Boy, Star Wars and Space Jam.

One of the greatest blessings God has given to me is to see the world through the eyes of this little boy!

Happy birthday little man, I love you!

The God of Hope

2008-07-14T04:56:00.000-05:00

* Important note to friends and family: This story begins with a flashback. I am NOT pregnant!!

OH NO! I can't be pregnant. I am only 26 years old and I already have a 10 month old baby, as well as a 3 and 4 year old! We can barely support the family we have, much less add another one to the bunch! How will it look as I am hugely pregnant, pushing a stroller and being followed by two little ones? What will the neighbors think? What will my family say?

The doctor's can't tell if the baby is a boy or girl but I just know it is another girl! And I have the perfect name.......Lilly Christine. Lilly, because I love it and Christine after my Grandma.

The baby's head is partially delivered but the contraction has stopped. It feels like I am being split open, so the doctor has pushed her head back in until the next contraction, when I am able to push her whole head out from inside of me.

She is a beautiful baby girl, and the name fits her perfectly~~Lilly Christine.

For the first week after her birth I am surprised at how easy she is. She eats and sleeps and hardly makes a peep.

But then she discovers her voice and since about the second week of her life, Lilly has been making herself heard! "Easy" would never again be a term I would use to describe this daughter, she is as difficult and complicated as an advanced math class would be.

Don't get me wrong, I love this girl with all of my heart! She is beautiful, funny and intelligent but she is also a "wild card". A girl who has always longed to keep up with her older siblings and lacked patience with others as well as herself. If she couldn't do something absolutely perfectly, and be the very best, she would rather not try at all. So little by little she gave up......dance, sports, academics, church......

In a family where the starring roles already seemed to be taken; the oldest one, the smart one, the athletic one.... where could she fit in?

And then, to make matters worse, more babies came along. Now she wasn't even the baby anymore. She was the middle child, the 3rd of 5 girls. What in the world made her special?

I believe this is where Satan sold my daughter the lie that she could find the attention she craved through negative and risky behaviors; she could be the "wild one". And besides, living that kind of lifestyle is so much more fun than following rules.

Like a used car salesman who spots a little old lady alone on the lot, Satan knew a vulnerable target when he saw one. I have bought more than my share of "lemons" from the enemy but my heart breaks when I think of him being anywhere near my children!

For the past two years our family has watched as Lilly has become ensnared in Satan's trap. The "friends" she has chosen have left her lonely and the "activities" she has participated in have left her empty and dissatisfied. In short, what she thought would bring excitement and fun has left her miserable.

So what is a parent to do? How does one child's behavior affect the rest of the family?
What if it causes friction in a marriage? Where does a parent find help when financial resources are limited? When the roaring lion is in the process of stealing, killing and destroying your precious child, where do you turn?

This is the place I found myself as I returned home from North Carolina last month and was faced with perhaps her biggest trouble yet. I had no idea what the answers were, I just knew that my husband and I were in over our heads and we couldn't help her anymore. We had tried everything we knew (punishment, prayer, rewarding good behavior, counseling...) but she was continuing to rebel. We felt helpless and our future looked hopeless.

Then God showed up.

Lilly's small group leader from church is also our Pastor's daughter. She is young(25), beautiful and fun, and apparently she has had our daughter on her heart for awhile.

So when Lilly called her after this latest round of trouble, Angie came to talk with her. She feels that Lilly is at a point where she really wants to change but doesn't know how. Her desire is to mentor Lilly and "lead her into a REAL relationship with Christ". In her words, "the enemy has beaten our daughter badly and she wants to help Lilly know the true joy of Jesus."

By this time my eyes were spilling buckets of tears. I couldn't believe that just the night before I was crying out to God that "I couldn't do this anymore" and today He was sending me an angel who wanted to help!! Some of my friends and relatives have belittled God's involvement in this situation, chalking it up to coincidence but I KNOW where my help came from......the LORD himself!!

I don't know how this mentor relationship will work. They have started with a mutual "TV Fast" and Lilly is willingly adhering to it. TV was a HUGE addiction for her so not watching it at all is a big deal. The idea is to spend time together 4 or 5 days a week doing anything from shopping to exercising to coffee at Starbucks.

This week we have allowed Lilly (and her brother) to go on our church's youth trip to the beach in Panama City, Florida. She will spend the week with her new "mentor" and learn about things like quiet time and journaling. And they will be doing it all with the beautiful backdrop of the ocean.

My great prayer while they are gone is this:

"Where do I send her to school next year?"- I think the temptations at her current school will be too overwhelming for her if she were to return there. I know there will be temptations at every school but I really feel like she needs a "fresh start" somewhere new. Somewhere she doesn't have a circle of friends we don't approve of and a reputation to overcome.

Like I said before, there are friends and neighbors (unbelievers) watching this situation so I am calling on God to Glorify Himself through it! I am waiting and watching for doors to be open and paths to be laid to the right school.

God's word promises that "He knows the plans He has for Lilly, plans to give her hope and a future." So I am claiming that promise for her and waiting for God to show me how to partner with Him, as her mom, in securing that future.

The "ME" Monster...

2008-07-10T08:33:00.003-05:00

A few years ago my family discovered a comedian named Brian Regan. We bought his DVD and it makes us all laugh till our sides hurt.

One of the routines he does is about the "Me Monster". Too often one of us gets so wrapped up in ourself that we turn into a "me monster". (Life is all about "ME, ME, ME.....")

The irony to me is that when we become so focused on ourselves we become the most unhappy because we are never able to have or be everything we desire on our own.

We will always seek more; enough is not a word in 0ur vocabulary.

We are threatened by or resentful of others.

And most of all, when we are seeking to live for self we are not in unity with God's plan for us and therefore we are unable to rest in the peace that comes only from allowing Him to be the Lord of our life.

So the next time you encounter a "me monster", or feel yourself becoming one, remember what Jesus had to say on the subject:

"For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:12

WFW~~~A Time to Rest!

2008-07-09T00:10:00.000-05:00

In my last post I told you how much I love to run and how God is blessing me through it.

Today I want to tell you about my new-found way to relax.

Last week I discovered a hammock on sale at KOHLS. It came with its own stand and the whole thing fits perfectly under two shade trees in our backyard. It is big and cozy and if I close my eyes it is almost like being on vacation!

The shade and gentle breezes make even the hottest day feel comfortable and with the summer flowers in full bloom the view is almost tropical.

A couple of days ago I went out to the hammock with a book and I didn't get up for 3 1/2 hours! It was the most wonderful form of laziness I have ever experienced!

I read, I prayed, I slept and I read some more.

The kids would come out and say, "Mom, you've been out here a really long time!"
I just smiled and nodded.

My husband called and said he would be working late.
I told him it was no big deal and to take his time.

Eventually I forced myself back into reality and returned to the demands and disorder waiting for me inside my house. However now I know that whenever I need a quick escape, paradise is waiting for me in my own backyard!

Who needs Calgon? Hammock, take me away........

Now, for the Word-Filled Wednesday part of my post I would like to use a photo of the lilies I can see all around my backyard. I am praising God today for His grace and His abundant blessings, including giving me 3 1/2 hours of "me time" this week!!

For more WFW posts click here.

A Reason To Run...

2008-07-07T08:03:00.005-05:00

I've mentioned before that I am a runner. Not really a "runner" exactly but I have found that running is great exercise that helps me to get into shape. At least it helped me get into shape after the first 6 babies but for some reason I haven't been able to shed the extra 20 lbs. left behind (literally) by Quin.

It's strange because I have run longer distances and more frequently since Quin was born than I ever did before. Last summer I was a fitness junkie. I worked out at the gym three days a week and ran 3 to 5 miles, three days a week. I saw some results but I still carried around the extra weight.

Perhaps it is that I am now over 40 (by a few years!) and my metabolism isn't what it used to be. It's possible my body has adapted to this form of exercise and it isn't as effective as it used to be. Or maybe there is a bigger reason for my bigger size, God has some things He wants to tell me through running.

I know that sounds strange but the more I talk (and listen) to other runners I find it's true. While our bodies are working our brains can relax and "hear" God much more clearly.

In the past when I ran I did some of my best thinking, but now every time I hit the pavement it is God's voice that I am hearing. It is so compelling that I have gotten into the habit of grabbing my journal after I run and writing down whatever I have "heard" (warning: this can be tricky if you write in pencil and are sweating all over the page, lol).

So what is the difference? Why am I "hearing" God speak to me now when last year all I heard was my own voice in my head? I believe it is because I am at a place where I am seeking harder after Him & I have sought to be more obedient to Him. I was not in the same place a year ago. And quite simply, it is His timing.

His timing was the message I received during my last run. If I had lost the weight last year, I might not still be running now and then I would have lost the opportunity for God to bless me.

However, if He would have revealed Himself to me in this way 10 years ago I would not have been able to understand His message and my family was not ready to accept it. My husband would have had me committed as one of those "Jesus Freak Bible Thumpers." I am sure he would still use that term to describe me now but with respect and love in his voice. LOL!

I guess what I am trying to say is that God has shown me that my lack of weightloss has been His plan all along. The very thing that has frustrated me is what God is using to speak to me. While I have been concerned and focused with the outside, He has been working on the inside.

Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

2 Corinthians 4:16

No, I don't look as young and thin as I did 10 years ago but I wouldn't trade it for the person I am now. As I was thinking about all of this on my run the other day God gave me a literal message.......

That alone motivates me to keep lacing up my running shoes and running hard after my God!

TSMS~~Free Indeed

2008-07-05T04:55:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I celebrated the freedom I know in my Country.

Today, and every day, I am celebrating the freedom I know in Christ.

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. ~~John 8:36

Here is a glimpse of my fourth of July and a song about the freedom that is mine!

A Neighborhood Parade.........
Popsicles in the park....
Paper Airplanes......Mother/Daughter time..
On to the pool....

The treats I posted about yesterday...

Even the dog was smiling.....
Enjoy this long weekend and if you get a chance hop over to Amy's blog and see more songs that will bless your soul!

A Star Spangled Menu!

2008-07-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

What better way to celebrate the 4th than with some patriotic food choices? Here are some of the things I will be downing today..........

RED:
I have discovered a delicious summer beverage; Sunkist Cherry Limeade. It is yummy, refreshing and best of all, it comes in a can or 2 Liter bottle! I like to pour it over ice and dress it up with a slice of lime and marachino cherries!
WHITE:
One of my favorite snacks is a salad made with mozzarella cheese slices, tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and it is an elegant treat!!!
BLUE:
Oh there is nothing like blueberry season!! We have a "pick your own" blueberry patch near our home but you can even use frozen blueberries in this wonderful cobbler recipe. Top it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and wait for the fireworks!!

Blueberry Cobbler:

1-- 20 oz. can crushed pineapple, in its own juice
3 --cups blueberries, fresh or frozen (no need to thaw if frozen)
1 --box yellow cake mix
1-- cup butter, melted
2 --tablespoons brown sugar
1 --cup chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Layer, don't mis, the pineapple, then the blue berries and dry cake mix.
Drizzle melted butter over all, sprinkle with brown sugar and top with pecans.
Bake 40 to 45 minutes, until top is bubbly and cake topping is cooked through.

I hope you are enjoying lots of "goodies" this 4th of July as well. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!!!

13 Reasons I am Glad Not to be on Vacation In Florida This Week....

2008-07-03T00:06:00.000-05:00

Today is Thursday and I am participating in the Thursday Thirteen meme. My "13" are my attempts to console myself over our canceled vacation. So here you have it, why I am glad to be in Kansas this week instead of on the beach in Florida:

1) My plants and flowers won't die from not being watered all week!
2) I don't have to kennel the dog!
3) I don't have to take a week off from the bible study I lead!
4) I won't miss a week of church!
5) I was able to have lunch with a girlfriend on Monday afternoon!
6) I won't have a mountain of vacation laundry to do at the end of the week!
7) My girls were able to participate in their golf league and scheduled ball games this week!
8) I have enjoyed visiting with friends at our neighborhood pool all week!
9) Sleeping in my own bed!
10) Home grilled Bar-Be-Que on the 4th!
11) I don't have to ride 16 hours (each way) in the car with 7 kids!
12) I will ingest fewer calories by not eating out at some over-priced, yet delicious, seafood place.
13) I have more time to spend on my blog!

OK, I would still rather be in Florida but I think this is a pretty good list. And my husband accuses me of being a pessimist??!!

For more fun on this Thursday check out some more lists of 13 here.

That's My Man!

2008-07-01T22:45:00.002-05:00

I love my husband!

He is a wonderful man!

He works hard to provide a full and happy life for me and the kids.

For instance today.....

After going for a run and then taking the dog on a walk to the park, I spent 2 hours at the pool with the little ones. I may not have gotten a lot of cleaning done but it was a fun day.

When we got home from the pool I took one of the girls with me to the super market where we loaded up on groceries. We were about halfway done putting them away when my sweet hubby called to say, "Remember, we are having the soccer team meeting at our house in a half hour."

Chaos ensued as we tried desperately to sweep, straighten and clean the house for company.

People arrived, I smiled and my husband explained the details of the upcoming soccer season.

As people were leaving I tried to help them brush the dog hair off of their clothes.

Finally my husband turned to me and said the words every wife longs to hear from the man she loves, "What shall I make you for dinner?"

Vacation is just a State of Mind....

2008-06-30T08:00:00.003-05:00

If life went according to my plans I would be writing this post from a luxurious condo in Florida.

Yes, this was supposed to be family vacation week but due to our "economic uncertainty" (have I mentioned my husband is in the mortgage business?) and the fact that a gallon of gasoline costs more than a movie ticket, we canceled our trip.

I know, I know, we are being good stewards with what God has entrusted us and I certainly don't want to do something foolish, like indulge in a week of fun that we will have to pay for over the next 2 years. Still though, "I want to be at the beach!!" (Could you hear the whine in that statement?)

The good news is that we are still finding ways to spend some wonderful quality time together as a family.....

Yesterday after church we all (minus the oldest) supported Cece at her basketball game and then took in a movie. Let me just say, KUNG FU PANDA rocks!! You can read Lysa TerKeurst's take on it here and here.

Someone asked me yesterday how we can afford to take all of our kids out to a movie. It is easy, just cancel the family vacation and suddenly we are feeling quite wealthy!

TSMS~~Amazing!

2008-06-28T00:20:00.001-05:00

At the She Speaks conference last weekend we were led in worship by a girl named Lindsey Kane. She is not only beautiful, she also has an incredible voice!! Oh what I wouldn't give to be able to sing like that!!

Anyway I have chosen one of her songs to share on Then Sings My Soul Saturday. I have posted the lyrics below. I hope you enjoy the music and the pictures.

If you would like to order her CD or learn more about her visit here.

When I cannot stand
When I'm weak
You're the ground beneath my feet
When I'm down in my shame
When it's all the same
You're there to hold my hand
And help me then to stand
You take me as I am
As I am

Aren't You amazing Father
How You love me like Your only daughter
Hold me closer than even a brother
You're the only friend like there is no other
Aren't You amazing Father
How You give me everlasting water
I'm the clay and You're the potter
Aren't You amazing Father

When I'm falling out
Falling down
When I sink beneath the ground
And the plans that I've made
They all get washed away
I feel You always near
Reminding me that You're here
A voice so strong and clear
Strong and clear

Father God You're amazing its true
Like a beacon in the darkness I can always find You
Every thought You know it
Every gift You show it
Every night every day Lord I pray that You bestow it
Word after word You make it so clear
Day after day I feel You so near
Thank You from a grateful daughter
Aren't You amazing Father

You're there to hold my hand
And help me then to stand
You take me as I am
As I am

Have an amazing weekend and be sure to visit Amy for more Saturday blessings.

Aroma of Joy

Spaghetti Thinking....

"Saving" Time

A Different Kind of Garden

A Bloggers Tale...

When You Wish Upon a Star.....

A Shark Story!

Our Very Own Fan Club...

Day 2 - Paradise Found....

A New Adventure!

Sampler Wisdom

Who Asked You?

"What's On My Mind Monday".....

The Word Is GREAT!

Save the Drama

What is a Big Mac?

I Know You Mean Well but Let Me Help You Get That Foot Out of Your Mouth....

The "Celebrity House Warming Party"....

Blue Mood....

My Plans vs. His Purpose....

WFW~~Psalm 119

Happy Monday!!

It's Been Awhile.....

Ordinary Gratitude!

Strength Training...

WFW~~Standing Strong....

Randomness.....

Happy Halloween!

Another Word-Filled Wednesday.......

Be Wise -- Prioritize....

Meet the Parents (parent's edition)

WFW~~Pursuing Peace......

Checking My Tank....

Where Does the Time Go?

Workout Rebellion

CBS- More Than a Television Network!

Playing in the Past.......

What Would Dorothy Have Done?

What's Your "Fruit?

WFW ~~Football Fever!

Demolition Day!

Time For a Change......

One Less Teenager in our Family....

Holiday Weekend Recap.....

Be Careful What You Wish For...

Back to School.......

Blogger Interrupted......

The Party Goes On.....

WFW~~Maranatha

Test Update & More Golf Lessons.......

~~Golfitis~~

TSMS~~His Eye Is On the Sparrow.....

Opinion Poll & Another Closed Door!

11 Years Ago!

WFW~~A Mini Retreat

It's Not About Me (at least not today).....

Because I Said So......

If You're Gonna Have Teenagers......

Letters from Camp.......

Garbage Day....

Let the Games Begin......

TSMS~~Unanswered Prayers!!

Out of the Mouths of Babes & a Brilliant Award....

My Week So Far and Word Filled Wednesday....

Hunting Lions?

Solving The Fur Dilemma...

Old Business & A New One!

How many kids???

A Day to Celebrate!

The God of Hope

The "ME" Monster...

WFW~~~A Time to Rest!

A Reason To Run...

TSMS~~Free Indeed

A Star Spangled Menu!

13 Reasons I am Glad Not to be on Vacation In Florida This Week....

That's My Man!

Vacation is just a State of Mind....

TSMS~~Amazing!

Golfitis